The topic of the present work is the surface compaction of powder metallurgical gears using metal forming processes. The main task was the identification of a metal forming process, which provides P/M gear wheels with the required mechanical properties for high demand applications and which is competitive to existing procedures. To reach this goal, existing procedures were analyzed and new ones were developed. Using FEM - Simulations and forming trials, the feasibility of new procedures for daily use was verified. It was found, that no single universal compaction process for gear production is available. Nevertheless, optimal procedures for specific types of gears could be found. As a consequence, the decision for a specific surface compaction process has to be made focused on the target products.