Breaking and reconnecting modern chains I started riding in the eighties back when derailleur chains didn't come with quick link connectors (master links).  Since that changed I've been using my chain breaker to get new chains to the correct length and then use the quick link to connect it.
I have a SRAM 8 speed chain that's pretty new that I need to remove and reinstall on the bike.  I don't know if disconnecting and reconnecting the quick link is a good idea.  Any reason I can't do things the way I did back in the eighties and nineties?  Have modern chains changed?
Shimano chains are still connected using the connection pin and the chain tool. There is nothing wrong about it, just use the special pin. But do not do that for chains that are not made for this and for which there are no special connecting pins available.
So, use the quicklink for SRAM chains. The Shimano pin will probably work, but one does not know how reliably. Some SRAM chains even use special hollow pins or what not so use the approved joining methods.