Laser processing is a promising technique for alloying and synthesis of wear resistant layers. In this work, commercially pure titanium was laser alloyed with various proportions of nitrogen and carbon monoxide in order to produce a composite surface layer. The following gas mixtures were selected: 100% N 2 , 67% N 2 + 33% CO, 50% N 2 + 50% CO, 33% N 2 + 67% CO and 100% CO. The microstructure, roughness and composition of coated specimens were characterized. The presence of Ti (C,N,O) in the surface layer was assessed by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Auger electron spectroscopy. The abrasive wear resistance of coatings was determined and related to their surface hardness. The abrasive wear resistance of the laser alloyed coating was substantially improved compared to untreated titanium and appears to be superior when composed of Ti(C,N,O) prepared from a mixture of gases.