Abstract: A new and improved apparatus is provided to permit a live or hot electrical power line to be cut in the field for line service or other purposes. The apparatus is connected at each end to the line at positions spanning the site of the cut. The attached end portions are then moved closer to each other, easing the tension on the portion of the line to be cut. The apparatus is then connected to the live line with jumper cables, forming a parallel electric circuit. The line is then cut and a cut end tied back. Flow of current through the apparatus is broken. An interrupter in the apparatus suppresses any arc which may tend to form.