OK, I read your whole post, but my reply was perhaps not clear.
Grant me the same courtesy.
Whether a driver is able to effectively threshold brake is the result of many "performance" factors, such as those noted in the Baer quote. I think their statement is a bit misleading, though, and what they should say is, "...the better a driver will be able to stop."
Now, as to your other point, what you are saying is that, in effect, the way you approach the tire's saturation point actually effects the total traction available at that moment.
I have read many things on the subject of tire traction, and that's the first time I've heard that one. That doesn't mean it's wrong, though, but it is interesting. Wish that you or I were better equipped to explain it. For now I'll have to concede and keep an open mind.
Later
