Abstract: A method and apparatus for the reduction rolling of metal rod out of billets, ingots, continuously cast bar and like starting elements, in and by which the stock to be reduced is sent through a sequential series of roll-stands each having a pair of reduction rolls and an entry guide to direct the stock into the nip of the rolls. Some, most or all of the rolls are cylindrical, parallel and devoid of grooves; the stock is shaped by rolling so that upon arrival at and upon departure from each pair of grooveless rolls it has a cross-sectional profile having a major axis which is from one and one half to two and one half times longer than a minor axis at right angles to the major axis. The stock so shaped is presented to the grooveless rolls so that its minor axis is substantially parallel to the work surfaces of the rolls.