Particulate reinforced ferrous-based metal matrix composites exhibit both excellent wear and cutting properties, and can give significant cost reductions over existing materials used in heavy wear applications. This paper reviews the current status of literature on titanium carbide-reinforced steel matrix composites and looks into the different types and methods of reinforcements being used, together with other alternative processing routes. Mechanical properties such as elastic modulus, low and high temperature strengths and wear properties are discussed as a function of the volume fraction of reinforcement. The review concludes by underlining the importance of further research in some critical areas to fully realize the industrial potential of these composites.