What is the function of the extractor in a firearm?

The extractor serves a crucial role in the operation of a firearm by removing the spent cartridge casing from the chamber after a shot has been fired. Once the firing pin strikes the primer and ignites the gunpowder, the resulting explosion propels the bullet down the barrel. Following this, the action of the firearm cycles, and the extractor engages with the rim or groove of the spent casing, pulling it out of the chamber and allowing for the next round to be loaded efficiently. This ejection process is vital for maintaining the firearm’s functionality, ensuring that it can continue to fire multiple rounds without malfunction. The extractor's design and functionality directly contribute to reliable cycling and reloading, making it an essential component in semi-automatic and automatic firearms.