I believe that these are machinist gauge pins. It's possible that wear required installation of over-size pins to tighten up the headspace back into specifications, and a gauge pin could be considered a good source.
If I remember correctly, axle pins used in the toggle train had to be hardened. As long as these pins had similar metallurgy, they would be safe.
Marc
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 Igitur si vis pacem, para bellum -
- Therefore if you want peace, prepare for war.
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