Abstract: An arc stack for receiving a circuit breaker blade moveable between a closed position and an open position, includes a plurality of arc plates positioned substantially parallel to one another and arranged in a plurality of adjacent groups. Each of the groups includes one or more arc plates having substantially similar respective arc throats formed therein. The respective arc throats progressively decrease in size from group to group along the length of the arc stack in a direction extending away from the closed position of the blade. A connecting support maintains the plurality of arc plates substantially parallel to one another.