As an update. The tippet ring thing was isolated to just one manufacturer of pakaged rings. It was not related to any leaders I bought with tippet rings.
Since then I have tried angler image and have not had an incident with them. Breakoffs are 50-50 between mainline and at the ring knot and are failing around breaking strength. Where before…they were failing far below breaking strength consistently at the tippet ring.
Last two outings I have used the Davy Knot. I am converted…thanks!