A surgical stapler is provided and comprises a handle assembly, an elongated body, an articulable tool assembly, andan articulation mechanism. The articulation mechanism has: a main shaft member connected to an articulation linkage a retainer having an opening for receiving a shaft portion of the main shaft member a cam lock having cam locking surfaces and a locking tab a locking cover defining recesses for receiving the locking tab an articulation handle having cam surfaces configured to engage the cam locking surfaces of the cam lock.
