Ejectors and Extractors

                     Barrels with Extractors                                      Barrels with Ejectors

Ejectors - Fittings inset into the breech end of a pair of barrels of a break-open gun, operated by a spring mechanism built into the forend, that kick out fired shells, while only raising unfired shells enough to be removed by hand. Recognizable at a glance on the breech end of a double gun because the fitting is split in two---one ejector for each barrel. 

Extractors - A fitting inset into the breech end of a pair of barrels of a break-open gun. When the gun is opened the extractor lifts the cartridges so they may be removed by hand. Recognizable at a glance on the breech end of a double gun because the fitting is solid---one extractor taking care of both barrels together. Sometimes called Lifters.

The ejector mechanism itself is normally fitted inside the forend. Two common forms are the Southgate (or Holland & Holland system) and the Baker.

The Southgate system works on the principle of an over-center cam:

The Baker system works on a system of direct-acting coil springs:

(Diagrams from Burrard, The Modern Shotgun)

Hallowell & Co., Inc. PO Box 1445, Livingston, MT 59047

Tel: 406 222-4770      Fax: 406 222-4792        Email: morris@hallowellco.com

Abbreviations, Definitions & Opinions      Hallowell & Co. Home Page      Ordering Information