Abstract: A quick-release device having a pair of jaws which are pivotally connected. The lower jaw includes a receiver which is in the form of an upwardly extending projection having a bore at the upper end of the projection. A locking pin is positioned to reciprocate in a plane parallel to the axis of the device from a latched position engaging the receiver to an unlatched position out of engagement with the receiver. The locking pin assembly also includes associated guide pins on either side of the locking pin to guide the reciprocating travel of the locking pin. When the release cable is pulled, the release cam moves downward causing the locking pin to retract. Axial loads are supported by the heavy axial jaws and not transferred directly to the locking pin so that minimal release force is required even under heavy loads.