AbstractStrain dependence of the critical current Ic has been investigated on several practical superconducting wires for high field application. The wires examined are Nb3Sn, Nb3Al and PbMo6S8 composites which are in the course of development. The effect of wire constitution coupled with fabrication process is also included. Improvement of the strain characteristics in these conductors through proper choice of parameters is briefly discussed.Effects of neutron irradiation on Ic are also presented. Changes in the mechanical properties of the constituents induced by irradiation alter the strain characteristics of Ic. Roles of the third additive elements and filament size are discussed.