Abstract: A swivel joint for handling fluids which is used to connect open-ended male and female pipe sections. A retainer in the form of an annular split ring is mounted circumferentially about the male pipe section in a groove formed on its outer surface. The split ring includes thrust and radial transfer surfaces which cooperate with complementary surfaces formed on solid annular bearings which are disposed generally between the split ring and the female pipe section. The complementary surfaces transmit both radial and thrust loads through the split ring and bearing. An assembly nut connects the male and female pipe sections, split ring and bearing together.