Metallic samples were irradiated by a long-pulse (τ > 300 ns) KrF laser. The experiments were performed with an energy density of 0.3–120 J cm−2 and a power density of 1–400 MW cm−2. The samples investigated were pure aluminum, aluminum alloy, low-alloy constructional steel and titanium alloy. They were polished to obtain a roughness of 10 < Ra < 0.08 μm and stress-relief heat-treated for some residual stress measurements. The characterization of the irradiated metal surfaces was performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), roughness analyzers, a microhardness tester and X-ray diffraction (XRD) residual stress apparatus. The improvement or deterioration in the mechanical properties of the metallic samples and some potential applications are discussed.