Quiver Killer vs. Binding Freedom Mechanical Load Testing & Performance Analysis

The debate between Quiver Killer and Binding Freedom threaded inserts has been ongoing in the ski community for years. Both brands offer high-quality solutions for converting traditional ski bindings into removable systems, but how do they truly compare when subjected to mechanical load testing?

In this 2025 update, we continue our deep dive into the strength and durability of these two insert systems. This time, we’re backing up our findings with mechanical load testing to determine which insert provides superior retention, longevity, and resistance to failure.

How We Tested the Inserts

To ensure a fair and data-driven comparison, we conducted tensile load testing using industry-standard equipment and procedures.

1. Test Setup & Equipment

• Machine Used: MTS EM Tension Testing System

• Load Measurement: High-precision load cell

• Data Collection: DAQ (Data Acquisition System) for real-time monitoring

• Test Materials: Identical ski mounting plates with inserts installed

Each insert type was mounted into identical test ski preparations to replicate a standard ski binding installation by an experienced ski professional.  Fasteners were inserted into the mounted insert and connected the tensiometer.  The fasteners were then subjected to progressively increasing tensile forces until the ski preparation failed. 

 

Mechanical Load Testing Results: Quiver Killer vs. Binding Freedom

The data collected from the tests allowed us to compare Load Capacity, Durability, and Total Performance (AUC - Area Under the Curve) for both inserts.

 

1. Load Capacity: Strength Under Pressure

How much force can each insert withstand before failure?

Average and Max Load (lbf)

	Average Load (lbf)	Max Load (lbf)
Quiver Killer	0.158	0.311
Binding Freedom	0.148	0.293

🔹 Key Takeaway: Quiver Killer handles more force before failure, making it more resistant to high-impact loads experienced in aggressive skiing conditions.

2. Durability: How Long Each Insert Holds Up

Time-based performance matters. If an insert installation fails too quickly, it increases the risk of binding failure in real skiing conditions.

Insert Average and Max Time-to-failure 

	Average Time (s)	Max Time (s)
Quiver Killer	4.750	9.400
Binding Freedom	4.450	8.797

 

📌 Quiver Killer holds force longer than Binding Freedom, showing better installation fatigue resistance under stress.

3. Total Performance: Area Under the Curve (AUC) Analysis

To measure total load-handling ability, we calculated the AUC (Load vs. Time) – a holistic measure of sustained force over time.

Insert AUC (Load vs. Time)

	AUC
Quiver Killer	3816.18
Binding Freedom	3152.40

 

🔹 Quiver Killer outperforms Binding Freedom in total force-handling ability over time, making it the superior choice for long-term durability.

Visualizing the Performance

We LOVE data.  The graph below illustrates the Load vs. Time comparison, showing how each insert sustains force before failure.   For comparative purposes, we include standard mounting screw performance as a Control.

Figure 1: Load vs. Time Performance

In the plot, you can see a fixture slip artifact in all three tracings, with the slip occurring later (and at a higher load) for Quiver Killer than observed for Binding Freedom or Control.  Binding Freedom experiences its first material failure at around 390 lbf whereas Quiver Killer doesn't experience first material failure until closer to 500 lbf.  Complete material failure occurs at a similar loads for both Quiver Killer and Binding Freedom, however, the peak load of failure occurs at a later time point for Quiver Killer.

Pull-Out (lbs/ft)
	1st Failure	Ultimate Break
Control	474.76	498.14
Quiver Killer	483.87	574.65
Binding Freedom	389.95	579.02

 

Key Takeaways:

Quiver Killer maintains a higher sustained load over time (larger AUC).

Binding Freedom fails slightly sooner, showing reduced durability.

Quiver Killer resists first failure longer and at a higher load than Binding Freedom, showing more holding power before the ski-insert interface is disrupted.

 

Final Verdict: Which Insert Wins?

After mechanical load testing analysis, Quiver Killer stands out as the superior insert system.

✅ Stronger Under Load – Handles higher forces than competitors.

✅ More Durable Over Time – Retains strength longer before failure.

✅ Superior Total Performance – Outperforms competitors in cumulative force-handling ability.

If you’re looking for the most reliable, high-performance binding insert for your skis, Quiver Killer remains the best choice.

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Check out Part 1 of our Quiver Killer vs. Binding Freedom comparison and stay tuned for future updates!