Mo2Ni3Si/NiSi metal silicide composite coatings with a fine microstructure consisting of Mo2Ni3Si primary dendrites and the interdendritic Mo2Ni3Si/NiSi eutectics were fabricated on austenitic stainless steel AISI 321 by laser cladding process. Small amplitude reciprocating sliding wear resistance of the coatings is evaluated as functions of normal load and slip amplitude and the wear mechanisms were discussed based on worn surface morphology observations. Results showed that the Mo2Ni3Si/NiSi coatings have excellent small amplitude reciprocating sliding wear resistance. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V All rights reserved.