Sure sounds as if there is a problem with your extractor. I would examine the end of the extractor to see if it is ok. If it isn't chipped or worn, the problem may be with it's tension.

You can remove the slide and slip a cartridge containing a bullet into position on the slide face so it is held by the extractor. The extractor should hold the cartridge in position against the face of the slide with only a slight droop to the nose of the shell.

I took a series of pictures to show this and also some close-ups of my extractor. I don't think I can add multiple pictures in one reply, so I'll split them up. I will only keep these pictures on the web for a week or so. If anybody misses them, ping me and I'll email them.

Rich S.