Ryan
1 and 2 comply, 3 does not, in my opinion
I do not understand why you feel this way, I am not saying you are wrong I just need some more info.
The key to this in my opinion are the words:
"pass through the interior"
The screws in the side of the box do not in any way
pass through the interior of the enclosure.
Pass to move in a path so as to approach and continue beyond something
Through used as a function word to indicate movement into at one side or point and out at another and especially the opposite side of <drove a nail through the board>
Interior the internal or inner part of a thing
All the definitions came from the Merriam-Webster On line Dictionary.
So that is why I have a hard time with this article, we would have to change some of the definitions in order to enforce the section the way you want to.
That said I will keep an open mind, maybe I am missing something.
The 2002 handbook is no help at all for this, I would call the handbook commentary after this section gibberish.
2002 NEC Handbook 314.23(B)(1) Commentary.
This requirement prevents the nails from interfering with the installation of devices. Permitting nails inside the box within 1/4 in. of the ends reduces splitting of the smaller wooden studs used in some frame-type construction. However, splitting sometimes occurs where nails are within 1/4 in. of the back of the box.
Huh?
Bob