You might want to check the batteries that you have. I also have the Attacker II with 8" lazer. I can get close to to 100 holes with a fresh charge on 24" of ice with mine. If you are only getting 30 holes in 18" of ice there is definitely a problem somewhere. I'm on my third year with the li ion batteries, I've been told 3 to 4 years is about there life span, then they go south. Long to charge easy to drain when they are ready to go bad. I have no complaints at all with my Icegator. I would buy one again if I had to do it all over again. I cant see how the new model could be any faster. these thing are a beast. The li ion batteries are not cheap to replace. no matter what brand auger you have. Open the battery case and your Icegator and get the numbers off the batteries. Then search them on line and you can save a ton on the price. I'm sure I'm next in line for that purchase.