Buster, hard to know how safe the older bindings are. I would say
more progress has been made since 1980 in binding technology
than in ski technology. Skis go thru fads of dubious value to the skiier
(short, sidecut, fat, being some recent fads).

E.g. new Marker bindings with variable toe release and active AFD (metal)
might be well worth $169 (piston $199) in saving your knees.

lal_truckee wrote:

P.S. Wash out means the skis aren't torsionally stiff enough to maintain
edge angle under pressure - the shovels and tails twist releasing the
edge resulting in a skid.

Oh! Thanks for the definition. Recent Rossignol Bandit skis have good
torsional rigidity and relatively high tail rigidity, but the tips
are relatively flaccid. This is one reason whey they are so forgiving
in variable conditions.

If you believe Skiing magazine, the 2005 Bandit B2 was top-rated
in several categories (October 2004). Props: to plush feel and
all-mountain performance. Gripes: lacks power and precision.