The nails are like that to keep them from coming apart so easily. Quality pallets use them and the cheaper ones use straight ones. Hense why it is difficult for you to tear them apart. I'm not sure of an easy way to dismantle them. Sorry
Jeremy
Culled lumber is what it is called. When I was framing we dropped tested every board we used for integrity issues. You just hold the board on one end with the other end sticking out ahead of you and two feet off the ground and while still holding on the end, let the other drop. You'll hear if...