A method of solid phase bonding metal pieces by securing a first and second metal pieces in edge to edge contact; subjecting the first and second metal pieces to a first upset comprising heating the first and second edges to a temperature in the range of 0.35-0.95 of the melting temperature of the first and second metal pieces and applying a first axil force to the first and second metal pieces to urge the first and second edges together, to upset the metal at the edge to edge contact and form a bond; and subjecting the bonded metal piece to a second upset comprising heating the bonded metal piece between secured locations to a temperature in the range of 0.35-0.95 of the melting temperature of the metal and applying a second axil force to the bonded metal piece to upset the bonded metal piece and form a solid phase bond.