a method and apparatus for improving the functionality , quality , and usefulness of a beam of coherent energy used in laser shock processing by utilizing an apodizer within the oscillator or amplifier of a laser . the apodizer used may be a phase plate , a serrated aperture , a birefringent beam shaper , an absorbent graded aperture , a reflective graded aperture , or a combination thereof . a method and apparatus for reducing or preventing damage to an oscillator and an amplifier utilizes an apodizer .