Japanese raising and forming stakes used in metalsmithing are slightly different than western style stakes. The bent style is double ended and they are mounted in wooden stumps or can be held in vices with optional holes and pins for secured vice mounting
 
The versitility of these stakes are unmatched. Because there is no center bar like a T-stake, one can make deeper vessels with them. The variety of head angles allows them to fit in all of the hard to reach areas. The head shape options allow for the perfect fit for the shape of your project.
 
They are available in 2 sizes:
 
17" long and made from 1" bar
20" long and made from 1-1/4" bar
 
The larger bar stakes are heavier, with larger faces, longer reach, and will have a more solid blow, but cannot fit as small of vessels.
 
Each size is available with 3 angle combinations:
 
0 and 15 degree head angles
30 and 45 degree head angles
90 and 120 degree head angles
 
Each rectangular head can be ordered to fit the shape of your project, and every stake is made to order.
 
For best results, you want the curvature of the stake to match the shape of your vessel. For planishing it can have a smaller radius, but not larger than that of your vessel.
 
The radius equals half of the diameter of the vessel.
 
1" bar stakes can have following radius in the long axis (parallel to the bar)
 
Double this number to find the diameter it will fit inside
 
Flat to 1.5"
 
1" bar stakes are available with the following  cross axis radius (perpendicular to the bar)
 
 
Double this number to find the diameter it will fit inside
 
From 6" to 1.5"
 
1"-1/4" bar stakes can have following radius in the long axis (parallel to the bar)
 
Double this number to find the diameter it will fit inside
 
Flat to 2"
 
 
 
 
1-1/4" bar stakes are available with the following  cross axis radius (perpendicular to the bar)
 
Double this number to find the diameter it will fit inside
 
From 8" to 2"