Abstract: A tissue sampling instrument or device for use with a two-part needle assembly having an outer cannula and an inner stylet, includes first and second carriage structures for displacing the respective stylet and cannula. The instrument also includes a drive carriage structure which provides separate and sequential engagement and displacement of the two needle carriage structures during operation of the instrument. The drive carriage structure first engages and displaces the stylet carriage, and thereafter engages and displaces the cannula carriage in order to produce sequential motions of the stylet and cannula in the operation to capture the tissue sample. The drive carriage structure also includes means for releasing the engagement of the stylet carriage at the termination of its driven displacement prior to the sequentially successive engagement of the cannula carriage structure.