Prepping for Extraction

by
posted on June 11, 2015
extraction-header.jpg

In Kukick and Oldham’s book, they write, “Installing the extractor is simply a matter is generally a simple matter of sliding the extractor into the tunnel provided for it in the slide.” Of course, there’s a bit more to it than that. The unique leaf spring has a fulcrum in the middle and a hook on one end. In addition to applying essential tension, certain areas of the hook must be lightly beveled to foster smooth feeding. In a nutshell, you need to “break” or bevel the outside edges of the extractor and the extractor hook: the bottom of the hook and the engagement flat just behind the hook. Doing so smoothes the entry points for the cartridge rim, thereby enhancing reliable feeding. It goes without saying that dealing with such minute angles will likely require a magnifying visor, a nearby bright light, jeweler’s files and, naturally, a steady (read non-caffeinated) hand. [Don’t ask me how I know that last part.]

Image
The red shaded areas indicate locations on an extractor where a slight bevel will improve reliability.


While prepping the extractor is more tedious and time-consuming than difficult, I opted to give this the old college try with understanding that since the Caspian is destined to be a carry pistol the pistol’s reliability it best left to a professional gunsmith. Fortunately, extractors are fairly inexpensive, so when I’m told it needs to be replaced, I’ll have the satisfaction of trying it myself—and more importantly—the knowledge base to improve upon with future builds.

Once you’ve completed prepping the extractor by lightly beveling the outside of the hook, try to install it inside the channel located on the right rear portion of the slide. (It should fit fairly easily.)  If not, use a flashlight to examine the interior of the channel for any burrs or debris, which can be easily removed by “chasing” the channel by finger twirling a tight-fighting drill bit that fits the larger rearward potion of the channel and a second smaller diameter at the front. If it still won’t fit, ink the rear cylindrical portion of the extractor, try installing it again and check for wear marks. File or sand any offending areas until the extractor fits flush against the rear of the slide.

undefinedWith the extractor prepped, now you can focus of applying the correct amount of tension to it.

Latest

Sheriff Jim Wilson
Sheriff Jim Wilson

A Personal Challenge: Part III

Making your defensive pistol of choice work for you is a process.

First Look: Kimber 2K11 Pistol

Available in two different versions chambered in either 9mm or .45 ACP

2024 Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts Over $200

Gifts for the gun owner in your life.

I Carry: Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus Carry Comp Pistol in a JM Custom Kydex Holster

In this week's episode of "I Carry," we have a Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus Carry Comp Performance Center pistol carried in a JM Custom Kydex Quick Ship AIWB Wing Claw 2.5 holster, with a Gideon Optics Judge green-dot sight.

First Look: Streamlight Stinger 2020 S Flashlight

Now available with a swappable, rechargeable battery pack.

First Look: Faxon ADJ Gas Block

Easily adjust your settings for suppressed to unsuppressed use.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.