AbstractTiC‐ and TiN‐steel composite layers containing about 40–60 vol.% of hard phases were produced on a die steel 90MnCrV8 using a Co2‐laser. Resulting layers consisted of homogeneously distributed hard particles (median size: 3 μm and 31 μm) embedded in a martensitic matrix and exhibited low surface roughness. Resistance to oscillating sliding wear was measured using a laboratory tribometer (ball on disc) with counterbodies of bearing steel and Al2O3, respectively. Both friction and wear of composites were substantially lower than that of the hardened untreated steel. Wear intensity depended on type and size of incorporated hard particles of the compos