If I understood your post correctly, the O-rings were already torn when you originally received them and not from something you did.
If you really want to use swivel ends, then I would contact Radium Engineering and explain the issue that the swivel O-rings were damaged prior to shipping. Radium should either ship out new O-rings to you immediately or replace what they sent you completely.
Personally, I don't use swivel ends. Not really necessary, I use fixed ends, in the appropriate angle needed, and just align the ends upon installation.
Fragola has nice stuff, which is what I use.