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.

The press of bar stock tends to cut, instead of shape the grain of material. With most bar stock, forging lines go along the length of the bar. 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.