[DavidG]

From a design point of view, a hardened pin makes sense. Take heart, because it is deeply recessed and if you pick the right drill bit that is a snug fit in the hole, you still will be able to drill it out (not with an inexpensive drill bit, however). Also, it is best done with a drill press with the column clamped in drill press vise to ensure that the drill bit is straight relative to the hole and to prevent it from wandering.