Abstract: A ripper tooth design is disclosed herein for use with a ripper machine wherein the ripper tooth comprises a generally U-shaped steel body when viewed in side view having a forward working end for engagement with rock formations to be broken and a rearward portion having a recess therein which is adapted for attachment to a shank, which is supported by the ripper machine. The ripper tooth according to the present invention has generally parallel side walls near its rearwardmost portion when viewed in plan, the side walls near the forward portion tapering inwardly toward the center axis of the ripper tooth. A blunt section is formed which extends generally around the front working portion of the generally U-shaped tooth and compacts of hard wear resistant material are imbedded therein to provide a longer working life for the ripper tooth.