Bragg diffraction profiles were measured on single grains of different axial orientation in cyclically deformed Ni polycrystals. Diffraction profile parameters were determined and compared with results from profile measurements on fatigued single crystals, showing the same type of dislocation structure as the grains with corresponding axial orientation. Conclusions are drawn concerning the deformation processes in the grains taking into account the activated slip systems, the dislocation density and long-range residual strains.