<p>This study investigates the effectiveness of the hot die forging process and the operational durability of forging tools for a component made of 1.4301 stainless steel, comparing manual forging by experienced blacksmiths and a robotised system under industrial conditions on a hydraulic hammer. The novelty of this study lies in a direct industrial-scale comparison of manual and robotised hot die forging performed under identical production conditions. The primary objective is to determine whether improved process stability—achieved through automation—can extend tool life and enhance forging quality. Despite significant technological advancements, automation of hot die forging remains a major challenge due to extreme conditions, including high temperatures, dynamic loads, and intense impacts. Six sets of forging tools were tested in both systems to ensure repeatability and statistical validity. The automated process, performed by two cooperating industrial robots, demonstrated a significant 35% increase in tool life (4333 vs. 3210 forged parts), while also substantially reducing monthly tool rebuilds. Improved process stability was confirmed by higher C_pk index, indicating enhanced dimensional repeatability. Microstructural analysis revealed a consistent austenitic structure with hardness around 235 HV0.1, slightly lower than the billet (262 HV0.1). The improved durability and performance were achieved without additional tool treatments. Automation also shifted the operator’s role to supervision, improving working conditions and long-term cost efficiency. These findings confirm that automation enhances repeatability, product quality, and tool life under demanding industrial hot forging conditions.</p>