A magnetic recording medium having a magnetic layer with an L.sub.10 structure and an easy magnetization axis lying about 35.degree. out-of-plane of the magnetic layer is disclosed. This medium has very high coercivity (Hc) and anisotropy field (Hk), giving rise to improved thermal stability. Combined with improved writability of the canted magnetic easy axis, this media enables improved recording signal-to-noise ratio (SNR).