Abstract: A machine forms pairs of elongated articles, bundles the pairs, and then stacks the bundles. A receiver and inverter function together to hold one of the articles in place and then invert a second article onto the first article to form an article pair. A number of the article pairs, typically about five pairs, are stacked on a vertical lift that controllably moves downwardly as additional pairs are added. An optical sensor senses the position of the top of the topmost pair, and controls the position of the lift so that the measured top is at a preselected position that permits yet another pair to be added to the bundle. After the bundle is formed, it is pushed onto a conveyor where a cradle turns the bundle sideways through 90 degrees. At an intermediate point of the conveyor, a retractable holding stop halts the movement of the bundle to permit a banding machine to band the bundle together with one or more straps.