Myth Busting: Shooting Without an Extractor

Published on April 24, 2015
Duration: 8:15

This expert-level guide, presented by James Reeves of TFB TV, details an experiment testing the necessity of firearm extractors. The experiment demonstrates that extractors are crucial for reliable operation in firearms like the Glock 17 and MP5, with most tests failing without the component. A notable exception was a suppressed Glock 17, which achieved 100% reliability due to increased back pressure.

Quick Summary

Firearms generally require an extractor for reliable operation. This experiment showed that removing the extractor from a Glock 17 and MP5 caused consistent malfunctions. However, a suppressed Glock 17 achieved 100% reliability due to increased back pressure, highlighting specific mechanical exceptions.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Extractor Myth Hypothesis
  2. 00:45Glock 17 Brass Ammunition Test (No Extractor)
  3. 01:25Glock 17 Aluminum Ammunition Test (No Extractor)
  4. 02:30Suppressed Glock 17 Performance Test
  5. 04:00MP5 Fluted Chamber Test (No Extractor)
  6. 05:27Suppressed MP5 Reliability Test
  7. 07:16Conclusion: Extractor Necessity Debunked

Frequently Asked Questions

Do semi-automatic handguns require an extractor to function?

Generally, yes. This experiment demonstrated that removing the extractor from firearms like the Glock 17 and MP5 leads to frequent extraction and ejection failures, causing malfunctions. While a suppressed Glock 17 showed surprising reliability, it's not a universal rule.

Can a firearm shoot without an extractor?

While technically possible in very specific, controlled conditions (like a suppressed Glock 17 in this test), it is highly unreliable. Standard testing showed consistent failures to extract spent casings, rendering the firearm inoperable for practical purposes without its extractor.

Does suppressing a firearm improve extraction without an extractor?

In some cases, yes. The increased back pressure from a suppressor, especially when combined with mechanisms like a Nielsen device on a Glock 17, can provide enough force to cycle the action and extract casings even without the extractor present. However, this is not guaranteed for all firearms.

What is the function of a firearm extractor?

The extractor is a critical component that hooks onto the rim of a spent cartridge case and pulls it out of the chamber during the firearm's cycling process. This ensures reliable ejection of the spent casing, preventing malfunctions.

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