The Xtra Amp tube, Isocode paper, Instagene matrix, and PrepMan matrix methods were evaluated for their ability to rapidly extract PCR-quality DNAs from Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Cryptosporidium parvum. All ability methods provided satisfactory DNA from E. coli, and the Xtra Amp and Instagene reagents provided satisfactory DNA from C. parvum.