Abstract: A high tension circuit breaker which includes a stationary switching mechanism, a second switching mechanism axially movable in a first axial direction, a first and second arcing contact operatively connected to the movable switching mechanism and a stationary switching mechanism, respectively, wherein the first contact normally pressingly engages the second contact, a supply for gas under pressure, a nozzle communicating with the gas supply formed in the movable contact and terminating adjacent the first and second contact for communicating expanded gas from the gas supply to the point of pressing engagement of the first and second contact upon cutting out of the gas supply for shifting of the second contact in a second axial direction opposite the first axial direction of movement of the movable switching mechanism upon cutting out of the gas supply.