A biopsy device is configured such that: a first retraction of a charge handle moves a cannula slide and a sampling slide in unison in a proximal direction to charge and retain a sampling spring in a charged state, and to charge a vacuum system； a first return of the charge handle returns the charge handle to a home position； a second retraction of the charge handle moves the charge handle to a retracted position； a second return of the charge handle to the home position moves the cannula slide to charge a cannula retract spring and retain the cannula retract spring in a charged state； and a third retraction of the charge handle moves the carriage assembly as a whole in the proximal direction to charge a prime pierce spring and to retain the prime pierce spring in a charged state.
