Leads for chronic implantation in the brain or other anatomical targets utilize tubular stylet means which are external to the lead. The lead comprises a distal electrode terminal, a proximal connector terminal, and a conductor cable having a reinforced distal portion and a stepped outside diameter providing a shoulder which cooperates with the distal end of the external stylet means. The substantial stiffness of the external stylet allows implantation of the lead without a brain-entering cannula. A tubular stylet spacer is employed to minimize lead dislodgement due to disassembly and removal of the lead introduction tools. Externalized stylet allows the conductor cable to have a small outside diameter and a desirably short length. A method of terminating conductors to electrodes using inserts is suitable for very fine wires and stranded conductors. A reinforced electrode terminal construction enables robust small-dimensioned terminal and high localization accuracy when introduced with external stylet means.