The mechanical behavior of the WC particulate (WCp) reinforced Cu47Ti33Zr11Ni6Sn2Si1 bulk metallic glass (BMG) matrix composites has been examined. The mechanical properties are improved with increasing WCp content up to 20 wt%. The ultimate compression strength and plastic strain of the composite containing 20 wt% WCp are 2.4 GPa and 2.4%, while those of the monolithic BMG are 1.6 GPa and similar to 0%, respectively. The multiple shear band formation and crack deflections through WC particles have been identified as the main mechanism for the improved toughness. (c) 2005 Springer Science + Business Media, Inc.