An apparatus for the automated and facilitated handling and operation of a biopsy needle system (22), having a first inner needle (86) component and a second outer needle (96) component. The first inner (86) and second outer needles (96) are provided with first and second handles (88.98), respectively, which are fitted into first and second yokes (46,47) of the apparatus. The apparatus is configured to maintain the first inner (86) and second outer needles (96) in a first position, during insertion of the biopsy needle point into the tissue being sampled. The apparatus is further configured to move the first inner (86) and second outer needles (96) into second and third positions, respectively, in rapid, automated succession so as to segment and enclose a tissue sample, which may be tested after removal of the biopsy needle system from the tissue. A tissue sample inspection feature permits facilitated repositioning and maintenance of the first inner needle (86) relative to the second outer needle (96) after retrieval of the tissue sample to, in turn, enable inspection of the retrieved tissue sample without removal of either needle from the apparatus.