Abstract: A cartridge extractor for extracting broken cartridges from a firearm uses a core rod with an enlarged head. The head is cross slotted so that it will compress as it is being pushed through the broken cartridge and will expand once it has passed the end of the cartridge. A tapered from face on the head cams the head into its contracted position as it passes through the casing. A rearwardly facing shoulder on the cartridge engages the end of the cartridge casing when the head is passed through the casing. The back end of the rod is removably attached to a base that is the same in size and configuration as the base of the cartridge being extracted so that it will cooperate with the extraction mechanism of the firearm. A resilient spacer tube surrounds the rod between the base and the head to assist in centering the extractor in the cartridge.