A tensioning device is provided for a surge arrester having an end fitting and tensioner. The tensioning device has an axial clearance for receiving a tensioner and a region being conically tapered in axial direction to be introduced into a clearance of the end fitting being shaped for a substantially exact fit. The conically tapered region has delimitation walls defining the axial clearance for the tensioner being movable toward a clearance interior. An antifriction layer is applied to the surface of the conically tapered region. A production method for a surge arrester and a corresponding surge arrester are also provided.