The catcher is operated so that prior to moving the projectile back into the ejection position, the brake block of the second braking station is disengaged while the first brake block remains in a braking position. Friction on the projectile and brake linings of the second braking station is reduced with a corresponding reduction in wear.In one embodiment, the braking stations are constructed with independent brake blocks. In a second embodiment, a common brake block may straddle the two braking stations.