The influence of the pack carburization regime on the bulk strength and wear properties of hypoeutectoid (0.3 wt% C, 3-17 wt% Cr) and hypereutectoid (0.8 wt% C, 4-16 wt% Cr) high-chromium steels was examined (950-1050 degrees C, and duration, 4-8 h). The results obtained enable an optimum combination of bulk (tensile, bending and impact strength) and surface properties (abrasive and unlubricated sliding wear resistance) of a carburized high-chromium steel to be obtained.