Product Overview
Carr-Lane MS17985-835 Quick-Release Ball Lock Pin - 1/2" Shank, 4" Grip, Military Spec, Unused NOS
Condition
Unused NOS. Sourced from military surplus. Shank shows gold-zinc finish with visible ball detent at tip; black cast T-handle stamped CARRLANE and partial code 17985 legible; knurled handle edges; brass retention ring attached. Light surface patina and tarnish consistent with age-in-storage; no damage. Photos show the specific unit you will receive.
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Product Overview
Carr-Lane MS17985-835 is a T-handle single-acting quick-release ball lock pin manufactured to military standard MS17985. Shank diameter is 1/2 inch (0.500"); usable grip length is 4.0 inches (4.00"). The push-button mechanism retracts dual internal locking balls for fast, tool-free insertion and removal. The black-finish cast T-handle includes a retention lanyard ring. NSN 5315-01-369-7246.
Key Features
- Shank diameter: 1/2 inch (0.500") nominal
- Usable grip length: 4.0 inches (4.00")
- Single-acting push-button release - balls retract on button press only
- Dual-ball positive mechanical locking retention
- Black-finish cast T-handle with knurled grip edges
- Brass retention lanyard ring attached to handle
- Gold-zinc finish shank visible on this unit
- Manufactured to military standard MS17985
- PRESS TO RELEASE text embossed on handle body
Applications
- Machinist or fixture builder drops this pin through aligned holes in a workpiece and fixture to hold position during milling or welding, then presses the button for instant teardown and part changeover - no tools, no lost time
- Aerospace or military maintenance tech aligns and secures access panels or temporary fixtures during engine work or inspection, where MS17985 compliance is a hard requirement, not a preference
- MRO buyer cross-references MS17985-835 to replace a worn or missing pin in machinery using adjustable stops or frequently repositioned guards - exact spec match restores original fit and function
- Maker or workshop builder uses it to build quick-adjust jigs, flip fixtures, or detachable workholding rigs where a hand-operated pin beats drilling new holes every time
Frequently Asked Questions
What hole diameter do I need for this pin?
The shank is 0.500" nominal diameter. Your mating hole needs to be slightly larger than 0.500" to allow clean insertion. Confirm your hole diameter against the 0.500" shank before ordering.
Is this a double-acting pin?
No. This is single-acting: the balls retract only when you press the button. If your application requires a double-acting mechanism - where balls retract by pulling the handle rather than pressing a button - this pin is not the right choice.
Is anything else included with this pin?
The pin itself is included. No additional hardware, documentation, or accessories are included.
Does the grip length match my application?
The usable grip length on this unit is 4.0 inches. Verify your material stack thickness against that dimension before ordering. Using a pin with a grip length that does not match your application can result in improper seating or inadequate fastening.
Can hobbyists and makers use this pin?
Yes. The T-handle and push-button release make it practical for quick-adjust shop jigs, detachable fixtures, panel assemblies, and any project where you need a fast, reliable pin you can operate with one hand.
A mil-spec quick-release pin from Carr-Lane, unused, sitting in a drawer since it left a government facility - now it just needs a jig to live in.
