A method for the preparation of multiple gauge metal strip possessing improved dimensional precision is disclosed which comprises passing the strip through a grooved roll assembly whereby strip reduction is confined to the area of contact with the grooves. The roll assembly of this invention employs a grooved upper roll whose dimensions are defined by the ratio of the length of the arc of contact of the upper roll with the strip to the width of the groove. The method of this invention is advantageously employed as a single pass operation.