What is the general consensus on master links, specifically the one that comes with a KMC 710SL chain. Are they no good for fixed gear due to the stress put on a chain, or am I fine to use it?

Use it.

Also, I've had 0% success rejoining a 710 chain by reusing the pin.

ETA: Be aware the 710 has odd shaped plates that don't fit some chain tools.

That's weird. What chain tool did you use? I've never had a problem.

I've been able to reuse the pin but the master link is just as good as a normal 710 link.

Scrod no likey the masterlinks

I likey the masterlinks

The SRAM snaplink thing is awesome.

Parktool and the one on the CrankBros M19. I think it's a combination of hamhandedness and poor tool choices. I've got the Rivoli bookmarked for next purchase.

I've used masterlinks on my 710 with no problems. Also has pressed pins back in with no problem(with Rivoli chain tool).

The Park CT-7 sucks on those chains. The little Rivoli works best.

The chain is rated for a ridiculious amount of break-force. Like +1,500lbs or something like that. That includes the master link.

If you could generate 1,500lbs of force with your legs, you would be in London right now.

You are fine using the master link.

Most chain failures come from breaking and improperly rejoining the chain. So, not using the master link actually increases your chance of failure.

Plus, aren't the pins on this chain mushroomed? If they are then it is a bad idea to join the chain with pins you pushed out

I have never, ever had an issue with that. Ever.

You know what you are doing. That can't be said for everyone who has a chain tool.

There is an old joke in the bike shop business (which you've probably heard):

Q: How do you increase business for your service department?
A: Give away free spoke wrenches.


Heyooooo!

I have a red 710SL and I used the master link at first. But then it bugged the **** out of me because it was shiny silver (not red). So I got rid of it. My chain tool (cheapy, not Park) handled it no problem. Twice now actually because I removed it the other day to degrease/clean.

The only issue I had was a tight link each time I reconnected it. But a tight link is easily worked out in just a minute or two. (lmk if you need info on how to do that)

But the next 710SL I buy will be from Scrod and it will be silver and I will use the master link.

When I first bought one you pointed out that this chain has mushroomed pins and told me to use the masterlink. It may not be an issue since these chains are so beefy. I also managed to do it with the ct-5

hnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnng pop

There's nothing wrong with using the master link, I just choose not to.

The CT-5 is basically a Rivoli chain tool with a slightly different design and replaceable pin. I can see it working pretty well on a K710.