Abstract: A linear motion bearing assembly includes (a) first and second interlocking bearing blocks, each having an inner wall which together define an axial space; and (b) a load bearing assembly disposed within the axial space of the interlocking bearing blocks, said load bearing assembly including first and second joinable sleeves, and at least one first load bearing structure disposed within the joined sleeves which includes an inner surface with ball bearings, and at least one second load bearing structure disposed within the joined sleeves which includes an inner low friction surface for facilitating sliding contact with a shaft, but including no ball bearings, the inner surfaces of said first and second load bearing structures together defining an axial channel through which the shaft is disposed and linearly and/or rotatably movable therein.