A needle core biopsy instrument/extractor for extracting a tissue sample via needle aspiration is disclosed. The extractor comprises a first cannula having a sharpened, beveled cutting tip and biopsy reservoir formed on its distal end. The proximal end of the first cannula is in fluid communication with a conventional syringe such that when the plunger of the syringe is retracted via manipulation of the extractor, a vacuum is created within the biopsy reservoir of the first cannula. Axially mounted about the first cannula is a second cutting cannula which is designed and configured to selectively cover and uncover the distal end of the first cannula. A biasing member, preferably a spring, is provided to urge the second cannula forward about the distal end of the first cannula. The syringe, coaxially positioned first and second cannulas, and biasing member are contained within an introducer which is preferably designed and configured to be manipulated by one hand. The handle slide and lever of the device are oriented in such a way as to allow the retention of tissue via vacuum and the severing of the specimen by the second cannula to be exactly timed by cam operation.