A method for joining a first bar end-on to a second bar by means of electron beam welding at a welding point is provided. The method includes the following steps, aligning the two bars with each other along a longitudinal axis, applying a sleeve, which surrounds the welding point in the circumferential direction with respect to the longitudinal axis, welding at the welding point by means of electron beam welding, wherein an electron beam welding apparatus is made to pass along an advancing direction, along in relation to a surface of the sleeve and along the welding point, and removing the sleeve.