A method of making a tubulation-free gas filled electrode or lamp having the steps of providing a glass or quartz tube having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; inserting a cathode into the first end; crimping the first end thereby securing the cathode and making the first end airtight; securing a solid plug inside the tube second end but leaving a gap between the plug and tube through which gas can pass; evacuating air from inside the tube by drawing it through the second end past the plug; charging the tube with a gas; and sealing the plug gap to make the second end airtight.