Abstract: Apparatus for removing a sample of granular or powder materials from a vat in which such materials are mixed in bulk, including an elongated probe having a sample receiving cavity at one end which may be adjusted to a predetermined volume. The probe is inserted in the bulk mixture to a predetermined depth, the cavity loaded with material from the bulk and after closing the cavity, the probe is removed from the bulk removing therefrom a sample of a desired predetermined quantity representative of the bulk mixture at the insertion point. A backing plate is also provided in the probe to compact the sample in the cavity to facilitate handling of the sample.