Patent ID: 7168687

Claim:
A snatch block comprising: an assembly head; one sideplate fixed to the assembly head; a pin projecting from the one sideplate; at least another sideplate pivotally mounted with respect to the assembly head about the pin, the at least another sideplate having a first surface facing the one sideplate, and a second, opposing surface; a sheave mounted between the one sideplate and the at least another sideplate for rotation about the pin; and a retaining mechanism comprising a resiliently biased body carried by the assembly head and configured for engaging the at least another sideplate to prevent pivoting thereof, a portion of the retaining mechanism protruding from the second, opposing surface of the at least another sideplate when engaged therewith, the retaining mechanism being further configured to be releasable from engagement with the at least another sideplate with a single motion, the retaining mechanism being substantially entirely housed in the assembly head when released from engagement with the at least another sideplate.