We describe the use of single-mode fibers to deliver moderate-power Nd:YAG light for precision machining at peak powers of approximately 225 W in 0.1-ms pulses. An example application is demonstrated: the cutting of 0.05- and 0.2-mm-thick stainless steel sheet with kerf widths and feature sizes as small as 30 mu m. (C) 1998 Optical Society of America.