Abstract: An electric switch having contact elements designed in the form of contact pins is disclosed. Contact pins and flat springs are arranged in units, each unit having a contact pin and an associated flat spring, and each unit extending in the make/break direction of the switch. Each contact pin-flat spring unit is held between a contact carrier and a cage. The cage may be held in place by outer ends of the flat springs. A tubular conductor or a contact blade can be used as a mating contact. The mating contact is in electrical connection with the contact pins when the switch is in the make position. The individual contact elements can be easily replaced, and a standard design contact element can be used in switches of various sizes and types. A switch according to the present invention is particularly suitable for use with large surge currents.