A method of redistributing the binder phase of a cemented carbide mining insert having one or more hard-phase components and a binder includes the steps of: a) providing a green cemented carbide mining insert; b) applying at least one binder puller selected from a metal oxide or a metal carbonate to the surface of the green cemented carbide mining insert; and c) sintering the green cemented carbide mining insert, the metal oxide or metal carbonate being only applied to at least one local area on the surface of the green cemented carbide mining insert. Moreover, a cemented carbide having a hardness gradient and the use thereof is also provided.