A lancet device including a housing (12) and a lancet structure (70) having a puncturing element (74). The lancet structure disposed within the housing and adapted for movement between a retaining or pre-actuated position wherein the puncturing element is retained within the housing, and a puncturing position wherein the puncturing element extends through a forward end of the housing. The lancet device includes a drive spring (102) disposed within the housing for biasing the lancet structure toward the puncturing position, and a retaining hub (90) retaining the lancet structure in the retracted position against the bias of the drive spring. The retaining hub includes a pivotal lever (92) in interference engagement with the lancet structure. An actuator (47) within the housing pivots the lever, thereby moving the lancet structure toward the rearward end of the housing to at least partially compress the drive spring, and releasing the lever from interference engagement with the lancet structure.
