A surgical instrument having a protective distal insert is provided. The instrument generally comprises a tubular member containing a push rod which is axially movable within the tubular member by means of a proximal actuation handle. The tubular member is provided with a clevis at a distal end. End effectors provided with proximal tangs and cutting or gripping portions are coupled to the clevis and are further coupled to the push rod at the proximal tangs such that axial movement of the push rod is translated into rotational movement of the end effectors. Between the arms of the clevis a protective insert is provided. The protective insert is a relatively thin and elongate U-shaped member of Nylon, PTFE, or polyolefin, having a central portion provided with a central hole, and two arm portions. The push rod extends through the central hole and the insert is oriented such that arm portions are parallel to the push rod and are further aligned with the tangs of the end effectors, such that when the end effectors are opened and closed the tangs place their load on the arm portions of the insert. A thin insulative sheath extends over the distal end of the tubular member to the clevis. The protective insert protects the sheath from cracking and splitting caused by contact of the proximal tangs against the sheath.