Abstract: There is disclosed a carcass back splitting machine having a multifaceted carrousel that supports, retains and advances carcasses through successive stations including an entry station, a splitting station and a discharge station. Each facet has carcass receiving and retention means including two sets of vertically arranged retractable suction cups for engaging the two sides of the carcass, and shifting the carcass into engagement with and in conformity to a configurated backstop forming surface. An extensible cutter vertically advances over a configurated path down through the carcass backbone but not the adjacent skin.