I had a similar situation, new Nils 8" that quit cutting. After a lot of debate I decided to buy another head and send the other one in for resharpening. The new head is working well but I am still bent out of shape that I am into this hand auger for about $250.00 now. I plan on picking up a 6" Fin-Bore 3 for a back up. I do not have confidence that the Nils will stay reliable.