What is the difference between a bar stock fitting and a forged fitting?

A forged fitting is forged as close to the final shape/size as possible. The forging process induces grain flow (also called forging lines) in the general shape of the final product. This results in a stronger product.

Bar stock is considered a forging; however, the forging lines go along the length of the bar.  There is a slight difference in the strength in the cylindrical and axial directions.  The forging lines may not always align with the shape and stresses of the part for non-cylindrical pieces. As a result, non-cylindrical pieces from bar stock are generally not considered as strong as a forged component.