What is end return in a weld?

Not exactly sure what you're asking but this may be the info you want. When stick (SMAW) welding as you progress with the bead directly under the arc a slight depression forms. Called a crater. When you get to the end of the bead if you pull the electrode away the crater is there which promotes crater cracks. By pausing at that point and actually backing up a little the crater is filled. With practice the weld is the same height and width all the way to the end. Hope this is what you are asking about.