barrel hooks are softer than case hardened hinge pins. a lot of british box locks have a non removable hinge pin,if you use smoke on the hook and finish by blacking the barrels down you get a really nice fit.( after piecing or welding the hook)and if properly fit and finished you have a permanent and acceptble repair. nialpatricmac how do you repair a LC or NID with nice colors or finish on the action.if properly done tiging is invisable and permanent mc