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lynx
Old Style Chains
As Tester says all chains used to have pins which projected a little way beyond the side plates, and this is true for 3/32" as well as 1/8". I prefer to stick to this type for my own use.
My method for splitting/ joining is to use a Reynolds 'Elite' chain tool (pic below) which pushes the pin just clear of the side plate so that the whole male link can be removed (just as if it were a spring link).
To rejoin I use a 'dimple' punch (see pic) to refit the side plate and then, supporting the chain on something solid, I give a few sharp taps to the pins of that link to spread them a little.
I don't usually bother with spring links and (touch wood) I haven't had any failures so far.