Amorphous Si_xC_1-x films, with x ranging from 0 to 0.4, were grown by high-energy ion beam deposition. The mechanical properties of these materials have been studied: indentation hardness, elastic modulus, wear resistance and scratch damage. It has been shown that the wear resistance and indentation behavior could not necessarily be correlated. Although these films do not show as high a hardness as other amorphous carbon films, their excellent wear resistance and thermal stability, as well as their very good adherence, make them suitable as protective coatings.