Abstract: A wedge dead end employs a single wedge-shaped jaw movable in an angled jaw guide between a rearward open position and a forward gripping position. The single jaw wedge dead end defines a fixed cable trough generally parallel to a lower gripping surface of the wedge-shaped jaw. When released from its rearward open position the jaw moves toward its forward gripping position and into a wedging engagement against a conductor disposed in the cable trough. Forward movement of the jaw applies gripping force against the conductor until the full tension of the transmission line is developed.