I totally agree with your quality statement . They just don't make 'em like they use to .
And , your example of worn is actually over worn . That chain could cause serious injury .
Early on in my life , I learned all about running too worn chains . I was running about 70 on the freeway and , without warning , the chain broke . It jammed/locked the rear wheel solid . Luckily , I was traveling a straight line and remained in control while a couple of swipes to either side took place before coming to rest at the side of the road .