Stan,
I'm not sure if I am the Smith you are referring to or not but I will say when it is possible to replace the hinge pin it is my preferred method of putting a gun with a worn hook back on face. As others have pointed out, sometimes it is the bolt that needs attention and not the hook. I will weld a hook when needed but that is not my favorite way of approaching the issue. Many ways to skin a cat.
Steve

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