A plasma arc torch has a cathode and electrode having connecting ends configured for a coaxial telescoping connection with one another on a central longitudinal axis of the torch. The connecting ends have interengageable detents thereon, with at least one of the detents being movable in a generally radial direction relative to the central longitudinal axis of the torch between an undeflected state and a deflected state. The at least one detent is movable from the undeflected state to the deflected state when the cathode and electrode are telescoped one into the other, and is movable from the deflected state back toward the undeflected state when the cathode and electrode are further telescoped tc, a point where the detents on the cathode and electrode are generally axially aligned. In this position, the at least one detent is engageable with the other detent to interconnect the cathode and electrode and inhibit axial movement of the electrode away from the cathode.