Apparatus and method for extracting the core and surrounding insulator from an outer sheath of a length of data transmission cable is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a pump operable to generate hydraulic pressure against one end of the core and insulator, and a drawing mechanism operable to simultaneously exert a pulling force on an opposite end of the core and insulator. The arrangement being such that hydraulic pressure applied to one end, and pulling force applied to the opposite end, together displace the core and insulator relative to its outer sheath.