Both techniques are really hard. The bow-drill was much easier, but the hand-drill would take at least 10-20 minutes worth of straight drilling. Hand-drilling is a really meditating experience that I haven't full appreciated yet.
Hand drilling can be done with a single person, with luck and endurance. But primal peoples commonly made it a team effort. One person would spin the drill till he got tired and started slowing down. Then another would take up the task. There are two of you. Try trading off on the hand drill and see if that helps.
