I have a weird tailgate question...

Using used parts is pretty much a thing here for insurance companies to save money. They try it all the time. They also illegally steered you to a preferred shop. You have the right to choose the place that works on yours vehicle in every state that I know.
I had the used parts problem years back when my Jeep got rear-ended. The insurance company responsible wanted to only pay for a used tail gate. I picked a local shop I trusted. They sent him a use tail gate from LKQ that he said was too rusty to refurbish. He sent it back and asked for a new one. Then sent another used that he rejected only to finally get them to agree to new. All the while adding days more to my rental they were paying for.
All I can say is look at new trucks see how they look and decide if you're being too picky or not. Then ask people you know who does good body work and go there. Be ready to deal with insurance because some times it's crazy the things they do to save a dime that end up costing dollars more in the end.

 

Indeed.

 

So... you're going to end up with a spare tailgate? Nice!

 

Might i ask where you got the tailgate locker from? Ive been on the hunt for something other than a hose clamp.

 

THere is a few options
Like
https://www.tacomalifestyle.com/pro...Q4RXCXpULJjEwVGJAh8DfFFqTdrKi65j_YVz6NV0YyYVs

or this which is pricey

SaBellCo 2016 to 2023 (Current) US Made Tailgate Lock v3.0 - Anti-Theft Lock - Black - for Toyota Tacoma (Updated Version)

https://www.amazon.com/SaBellCo-2016-2021-Tailgate-Lock-Anti-Theft/dp/B08GKH2QH2

What I did even though I've not ever heard of a tailgate taken in my area is I instilled the hose clamp and the Toyota power lock to keep the tail gate locked up when I lock the doors. This way stuff under my hard tonneau cover is more secured from opportunistic thieves that might try to snoop for something to take if it was unlocked. Also they can't take your tailgate if they can't open and lower it.

 

The best option, in my opinion, can be found in this thread:

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/tailgate-anti-theft-device.612331/

It's the one pictured in the OP's first post.
And the one I have.