I second the Randy nod. He is the king, and shares on a couple of the podcasts and a video in the library. https://live.bonsaimirai.com/library/video/yamadori-aftercare-with-randy-knight Roots, roots, roots. If you are truly removing from pockets then the “soil” will basically be duff from the shed needles, air blown dust and debris. Prybar and hand tools should get the job done, in many cases a true pocket is similar to removing a root bound tree from a pot. There are several threads with various collection info if you search, like this one…Whats in your bag for collecting yamadori
The bit of advise I will offer is after the tree is out the work has just begun. Lightly wetting the mass and binding it tightly are very important. You do not want the soil and the root mass bouncing around and breaking apart in transport, if it does survival rate plummets. You want that package securely wrapped. Also when potting I use larger gauge wire to tie down to prevent the wire from cutting into the soft, delicate root mass.
Better to start with second rate trees and learn, than collect first rate trees that die.
Good Luck!!