Various embodiments of this disclosure concern a lead end having an inner support. Such a lead can include a first end, a second end, a main body, and a plurality of exposed electrical elements on each of the lead ends. A metal support can be contained within the first end, the metal support comprising a plurality of longitudinal members and a plurality of cross members between the longitudinal members, the metal support having an interior space. The first lead end can further include polymer fill within the interior space of the metal support and encapsulating at least a substantial portion of the metal support, the polymer fill defining at least some of the exterior surface of the first end between the exposed electrical elements of the first end.