Basic electrode for producing tough and crack-free welded joints even on steels having a carbon content of up to 0.4 %. Weld metal recovery amounts to approx. 120 %. Good operating characteristics, also in positional welding. Weld metal exhibits good toughness properties down to -60˚C. Suitable to use in welding of dynamically loaded machinery, steel construction, bridge, pipe and pipe line construction, tank, pressure vessel and shipbuilding. Electrode is suitable for depositing buffer layers on higher carbon steels. Welds are of X-ray quality.