Abstract: A novel automatic wire terminal applying machine for attaching closed barrel terminals to the ends of lengths of wire is disclosed. In addition to the conventional operating mechanisms, including wire clamps, wire cutter and strippers, and terminal applicators, the wire end position control for longitudinally moving the wire clamps for retracting the stripped wire end to position it in overlapping relationship with the terminal for application of the terminal further includes wire insertion means for advancing the stripped wire end prior to operation of the terminal applicator for longitudinal, rather than transverse, insertion into the open end of a closed barrel terminal.