Abstract: A contact tip for supporting a consumable welding electrode and for supplying welding current thereto. The contact tip is generally rod-shaped and has a passage with a helical contact surface. The welding electrode is fed through the passage and makes electrical contact with the contact tip. Because of the helical contact surface, the passage never becomes constricted by cumulative deposits of dirt and extraneous matter from the welding electrode surface. Also, the helical contact surface, which axially extends at least one complete turn, has an unbending effect on the welding electrode, thus straightening the electrode. A distance "A" of the electrode axis from the contact tip axis may be chosen, as desired, considering the diameter of the welding electrode. Optionally, the contact tip may include a sleeve-like nozzle, to shield the contact tip from deposits of welding splatter.