The invention relates to a surge protection device comprising at least one surge protection unit, consisting of a substantially U-shaped socket part and a plug part which can be fixed in the socket part and which receives a surge protection means. Insulated electric conductors on or in the socket part are contacted by means of vampire taps or displacing terminals. The surge protection device also comprises openings or perforations formed in the socket part for receiving conductors. According to the invention, the openings are selectively designed so that the electric conductors are inserted into or through the openings, and the openings are exposed in a socket part region which can be covered by the socket part such that cutting surfaces located on the base of the plug part penetrate the conductor insulation during the plug-in process and directly contact the respective conductor.