A push-pull latch assembly for a detachable media pick mechanism. The latch assembly comprises a handle that is slidably and axially insertable into a handle base which is mounted to the pick mechanism housing. The handle base includes a pair of cantilevered, opposed latched arms having opposed catches for engagement with a groove positioned adjacent to a free end of a cantilevered drive shaft for the pick mechanism. The handle includes triangular rails having inner and outer ramps used to separate the opposed latch arms. The outer ramp separates the latch arms when the handle is inserted into the handle base. The inner ramp separates the latch arms during removal of the pick mechanism from the drive shaft. An axial pushing force engages the latch assembly to the groove and an axial pulling force disengages the latch assembly from the groove allowing for pick assembly removal.