Embodiments of the present invention include a breech system comprising, first, a breech lock with a pivotable cam end plate for accessing a firearm breech and, second, a camming cartridge extractor with a pivotable lever for extracting a fired cartridge. The pivotable cam end plate may be connected to an independently pivotable arm that is operable as a lever for moving the cam end plate into an open position to allow breech access. The pivotable cam end plate and pivotable arm may be capable of a plurality of movements within the same plane in order to optimize leverage and cam action for opening the breech lock.