Please, please, please go through a reliable dealer! So many times I get letters, Emails, etc. from people who have found a "bargain" at an antique store or department store close-out, etc, but it was missing this or that. A reputable dealer will try to help you to replace anything missing or broken. If you knowingly buy a nutcracker broken or with missing parts, it is not fair to expect another dealer to help repair it or to ask the factory to repair it. Check the nutcracker, it is no bargain if pieces are missing or broken, and certainly not the responsibility of an authorized dealer to help you out when you get a lemon at a garage sale.