How to extract a broken shell casing

A broken shell casing is something no firearm enthusiast wants to see. It can occur due to an improperly made casing, wear due to excessive reloading of a casing, a backfire or a variety of other similar malfunctions in a firearm. When an instance occurs, the extractor arm on the bolt pulls the rim of the casing off, leaving the remainder of the casing lodged in the chamber. Here you will find some methods for removing the casing.

Stuff needed
Broken shell extractor

Gun cleaning kit

Section 1
Shell extractor

Step 1
Remove any remaining ammunition from the firearm. Never attempt to work on a loaded firearm. Doing so can result in serious injury or death, as well as potential damage to the firearm.

Step 2
Lay the weapon on it's side with the ejection port facing upward and lock the bolt to the rear.

Step 3
Insert the broken shell extractor tool into the chamber and close the bolt, ensuring that the shell extractor arm properly attaches to the lip of the tool. 

Step 4
Pull the bolt handle or charging handle to the rear to eject both the extractor tool and the casing. If the casing does not eject with the tool, repeat the process until the casing is successfully extracted. If the casing does not eject after repeated attempts, or if you do not have a broken shell extractor tool, proceed to the next section.


Section 2

Gun Cleaning Kit

Step 1
Begin by following both step 1 and step 2 listed in section 1.

Step 2
Assemble the corresponding cleaning rod for your specific caliber of firearm and attach the wire bore brush to the end of the cleaning rod.

Step 3
Insert the cleaning rod in the end of the barrel and carefully push the rod towards the chamber. You should be able to feel when the brush comes in contact with the broken casing.

Step 4
Push the rod forward until the casing is freed from the chamber. Once the casing is free, reach in and remove the damaged casing or turn the weapon over so that the casing falls out.

Step 5
Clean the firearm to remove any remaining debris from the chamber and surrounding areas.


Tips
 If the casing still fails to eject, you may want to consider bringing the firearm to a licensed gunsmith