A biopsy forceps device includes a control member; a yoke coupled to the member; jaws coupled to the yoke; and a capsule. In an open configuration, the jaws are separated to receive target tissue. In a closed configuration, cutting edges of the jaws are moved toward one another to cut tissue. The capsule slidably receives the yoke and a portion of the jaws. The jaws are constrained to the closed configuration when withdrawn proximally to a first position within the capsule. When the jaws are moved to a second position, portions of the jaws are freed from the constraint capsule and spread apart. When the yoke and the jaws are moved distally and the jaws move to the open configuration, a tissue contacting structure of the yoke extends distally to engage tissue between the jaws to anchor the engaged tissue again lateral movement as the jaws contact the tissue.