Isn't the front band meant to be retained by the ends of the two transverse pins that anchor the "endcap"?

These SHOULD have "flats" formed on one side at the tips. These flats face each other, i.e., front pin flats face rearwards, rear pin flats face forward.

Thus, the "flats" on the ends of the pins "locate" the band AND, the band stops the pins from "walking" out if the wood gets shabby.

Neat.