First N.O.E. Mould! (and why I will be giving N.O.E. more money)
Well, I ordered my first NOE Mould... since they are local, I decided to just stop on by the shop and pick up my shiny new mould and decided to get one of their Mould Handles while I was at it (The site does not have any listed).
What I can say about this place, is nothing but positive. I didn't really have time (nor did they) for a small tour.. although I am hoping next time I get a Mould, the owner might have some time to show me around.
The place is nice, clean and extremely organized. Judging by the owner's personality, they'd probably disagree with me. It's not a giant shop by any means, but, it really doesn't have to be. As long as you're putting out quality products in a timely manner.
I had a little time to speak with Al, he is just a wonderful man to talk to. Even though I showered him with praise about the shop, the reviews of his moulds and that the company was mentioned in Handloader... he was very humble and very down to Earth. He doesn't take anything for granted, and from what I can see in his face... he is grateful for everything that has come his way and how well his products have been received. He seems like the kind of guy who would do anything he could, to make sure that his customers are taken care of.
I can see there is a lot of pride in how things are done there. I noticed there were bullets being cast and then mic'd to ensure uniformity and consistency, someone was tending to the CNC machines and making sure its running properly... and it looks *to me* that they are doing everything they can to make sure their tools are in top shape to bring us the best products they possibly can... IE I don't think we will be seeing any issues about cavities being too small from worn out cherries or tools.
Myself, I bought the 5 cavity 452-200-SWC H&G 68 mould. It looked amazing and so well crafted, the big stainless pins and sleeves used for alignment were such a nice thing to see... all the chamfering around the entire mould block and even the sprue plate (no sharp edges or corners!). Such attention to detail is why these guys and their moulds are sought after. Its more obvious to me now, than ever... why this is where you should spend your money... pictures just don't do these things justice. Even down to the method of the pins for securing the handles... excellent and simple!
As I said, I also picked up a pair of their handles. They look very much like someone else's six cavity handles, but that's where the similarities end. These are laser cut with chamfers on all the edges that would usually be sharp from cutting in such a manner. They are steel, and not that sinstered steel stuff. Nice deep stain on the wood handles with stainless pins and brass ferrules to hold them there. Nice spring washer and lock nut complete the handles. They are of tight tolerances and operate very smoothly.
What else can I say? Made in America, with Pride. Al Nelson is obviously building a great business here and even when he was just starting out in a garage, has been bringing us great Moulds.
Pics? I may add them later... you guys have seen all of them already!
Very long post.... thanks for anyone who made it through.
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