Perhaps the term "hard IFR" is incorrect, but as far as I know, thats the generally accepted term for IFR flights to minimums as opposed to breaking out well above minimums. No, its not hard to do, the "hard" refers to operating at the regulatory limits.
As mentioned earlier, I was curious as to where else mins are encountered on a regular basis.
Some one PM'd me about CARs; you can find what you are looking for at 724.08(1)