Hardware
The hardware includes the hasp, the hinges, and all of the nails and the screws on a box. Inspect the hardware
to see if it is all present and tight. If any hardware is missing, replace it with serviceable parts from an
unserviceable box. If any hardware is loose, tighten it. If the hardware cannot be tightened, make new screw
holes and fasten the hardware on the box in a place where it will be secure (see Figure 1-2). If the hasp or hinges
are bent and will not operate correctly, remove them from the box. Usually these items can be straightened.
Using pliers, carefully bend the damaged items into the same shape as a serviceable hasp or hinge. Then test
the items to see if they will operate correctly. If you discover rust or corrosion on the hardware, clean it off with a
wire brush. Then cover the bare metal with a primer or paint.
Figure 1-2. Location of Hardware on a Wooden Ammunition Box.
Handles
Check the ends of the box to make sure that the handles and the cleats that hold the handles are present and in
good condition. If these items are damaged or missing, you must repair or replace them. Before you can repair
them, you must empty the contents from the box. Then remove the broken handles or cleats from the box using a
claw hammer or a pry bar. Obtain serviceable cleats or handles from an unserviceable box. Correctly position
the serviceable handles and cleats on the box, and then attach them to the box using three to five nails in each
cleat. Bend the nails over the inside of the box using a hammer. If the damage is so bad that you have to take
the box apart in order to repair an end, put the box aside and replace it with a serviceable one.
Wood
Check for splits, warping, mold, mildew, and knotholes or loose knots. Adjoining splits, splits closer than 1 inch to
the edge of the board, or splits over 1/8 inch wide cannot be repaired. When splits can be repaired, hold the
board tightly so that the crack or split is closed. Hammer corrugated fasteners into the wood at 4-to 6-inch
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