Abstract: A syringe (110) having a barrel (111) that receives a rod assembly (117). Mounted at the forward end of the Barrel (111) is a needle mounting (121) that receives as needle (124). The mounting (121) is releasably attached to the barrel (111). The rod assembly (117) includes a hollow rod (118) that has at its forward end a gripper device (135) that engages the mounting (121) so that upon release of the mounting (121) with respect to the barrel (111) and release of the device (135) with respect to the rod (118), the mounting (121) and device (135) are propelled into the rod (118) by a spring (138).