Mine was hard to crank at first, but got easier with use. I've heard several people make the same observation.
Sizzix used to make the Big Shot Sizzix Express, which was an electric machine:
http://www.amazon.com/Sizzix-Shot-Ex...pr_product_top
but I think they discontinued making it.
If you can afford it, the Accuquilt Studio is (I think) easier to crank; however, you need a dedicated space for it as it is quite heavy. This is the machine I would get if I had a space for it and could afford it.