""Master links for current 8,9, 10 and 11-speed derailleur chains do not have an "open end". You are describing the master links used on old style bike chains and motorcycle and insustrial chains.""

Oh, were we not speaking of traditional master links for 1/8" chains? I agree when it comes to modern multi-speed chains such as SRAM etc, the included quick connect type master links are fine and I havent seen those fail, use them all the time!

Traditional master links have the habit of popping apart at inopportune times, I find, especially in situations of less than 100% perfect chain lines (i.e. adult 3 wheelers) or very tight chain adjustments (i.e. freestyle/flatland bikes, "fixies"). If there is anywhere the transition onto the sprocket is less than perfect it can catch that removable plate and pop it off.

On an unrelated note how do I make quotes show up in the nifty blue box?