Decorative lighting fixture and lighting string

摘要

An improved lighting fixture for adaptation to an improved decorative lighting string is provided. A light bulb is inserted into the socket and the combined light bulb/socket assembly is combined with a socket base having a pair of electrical wires disposed therein. Use of a sealing and retaining ring provides for a snug and secure fit between the bulb and the socket. Engagement of complimentary slots of the socket base and alignment projections of the socket provide for improved orientation between the socket and the socket base and provide for an improved and more secure fit between the socket and the socket base. Engagement between a wedge-shaped skirt of the socket and a wedge-shaped recess of the socket base provides for a friction or snap fit between the socket and the socket base and prevents the introduction of moisture into the socket base. An end closure plug biases the electrical wires into a fixed position and closes a bottom end of the socket base to prevent the introduction of moisture or other foreign matter. Improved electrical contacts provide better conductivity though engagement with the leads of the bulb and are manufactured from an improved manufacturing process.