A primer removal tool comprising a starter tap, a holder for the starter tap, one or more setscrews passing through the holder and against the starter tap for securing the starter tap in the holder, a handle, a spacer bushing connected to the center of the handle, a shaft having one end connected to the starter tap holder and the other end connected to the spacer bushing, and a knurled slider on the shaft, the slider being constrained to slide between the holder and the spacer bushing. The starter tap is inserted into the center of the damaged primer; the tool is held parallel to the centerline of the cannon bore while applying forward pressure; the handle of the tool is rotated clockwise to run the tap into the primer a few turns; and the handle of the tool is rotated counterclockwise one-quarter of a turn. These steps are repeated until most of the tap is in the primer chamber. Next, the slider is gripped, pushed forward toward the primer chamber, and then quickly pulled backward against the spacer bushing. This motion is repeated until the damaged primer comes out of the primer chamber on the edge of the tap.