A method of penetrating an intravascular occlusion including the steps of: obtaining an apparatus with a sleeve assembly defining an elongate passageway having a lengthwise axis, a stabilizing assembly, and a blade assembly; directing the sleeve assembly into an operative position within a vessel passage wherein an outlet from the elongate passageway is adjacent an occlusion within the vessel passage; through the stabilizing assembly, stabilizing the sleeve assembly in the operative position; and with the sleeve assembly stabilized in its operative position advancing the blade assembly in a first lengthwise direction relative to the sleeve assembly to penetrate the occlusion.