I used to have a two- handled pile driver. Perhaps I was not clear in describing the variation I saw.
The variation looks a lot like a big sledgehammer. The difference is that the “handle” has been replaced by a length of pipe. The idea is to slip the pipe over the rod, stand the rod up, then push the driver up — only to let it free-fall down the rod. No need to climb a ladder.
Contrast this operation to the usual pile driver, where you carry the tool up the ladder with you, then make your first blows while still on the ladder.
Once the rod is driven most of the way in, you reverse this variation and use it like a tamper (not like a hammer). Again, you’re working while standing, rather than bending over to grab side handles.
