Core sampling apparatus

An apparatus for obtaining a core sample comprising:

• a hollow drill element having an open front end provided with a cutting edge and an open rear end provided with axial engagement means for engaging an associated driving tool, said drill element having a longitudinal aperture extending from said front end to said rear end, said aperture having a smooth uninterrupted interior periphery throughout at least a major portion of its length for accomodating a core sample;
• a spacer slug means selectively positioned within said drill element aperture for guiding said drill element, said spacer slug means having a centrally disposed aperture extending longitudinally therethrough, and having an outer diameter of appropriate size so that said spacer slug means is slidable in said drill element longitudinal aperture toward said rear end thereof as said drill element cuts the core sample;
• and,
• an elongate guide pin means selectively extending through said spacer slug aperture and positioned in said drill element aperture for guiding said drill element as said drill element cuts a core sample.

A drill apparatus for cutting and withdrawing hard tissue in the form of a core sample from a living being while not harming soft tissue lying between the skin and the hard tissue, comprising:

• a hollow tubular drill element provided with an annular cutting edge at a front end, for cutting into the hard tissue, and a rear end, a longitudinal bore extending between said front end and said rear end for receiving a core of the hard tissue;
• means for guiding said drill element cutting edge as it cuts into the hard tissue;
• and,
• guard means for protecting the soft tissue between the skin and the hard tissue, said guard means comprising a hollow cylindrical sleeve having an inner diameter of sufficient size that said drill element can extend therethrough.