Abstract: A tester for testing a shear fastener includes: a frame; a stationary chuck connected to the frame; a linear guide comprising a slider; a movable chuck connected to the slider; a movable insert fastened to the movable chuck and having a hole for receiving a first portion of the shear fastener; a stationary insert fastened to the stationary chuck and having a hole for receiving a second portion of the shear fastener; a linear actuator for engaging the movable chuck and fracturing the shear fastener; and a load cell for determining force exerted on the shear fastener by the linear actuator.