The properties of the M1 bands in the Pb region are reviewed. They can
be explained by 'magnetic rotation' which is a new concept in nuclear
excitations. Spin and excitation energy along the bands are increased
by the shears effect, a step-by-step alignment of large proton-partic
le and large neutron-hole spins into the direction of the total angula
r momentum. First evidence is presented for band termination connected
with the closing of the shears.