How to Fix Peep Rotation

String stretch creates one of the most common issues for beginners: peep rotation.
In the first few hundred shots the strings on a bow slowly stretch and settle. As a result, the string and peep rotate. Archers will notice a smaller sight picture, that appears elliptical. Here are a few options for addressing peep rotation.

Twisting the D-Loop or Peep Sight

Peep Diagram
For a peep sight only slightly out of line a hunter can get away with rotating the D-loop in the opposite direction. If your peep is rotated to the left, hold the serving and push the D-loop knots to the right (Top photo). If the peep has turned slightly right, rotate the D-loop to the left (Bottom photo). This will create a bit of torque on the string and the knots will eventually creep back to where they were before, but for a quick fix without a bow press, its a good option.

You can also directly twist the peep each time before you draw back. However, consistently twisting the same amount, especially in high pressure situations, will present challenges. I mention it because I have seen hunters that do it, so it must work for some people. But, I’ve also heard horror stories of coming to full draw on a bull with a sideways peep.

Adding Twists to the String
If your string reaches the point where the D-loop sits sideways or backwards, take the bow back into a shop and have them add a couple twists to your string. You may still need to adjust your D-loop slightly afterwards.

For those that own a bow press, add a half twist at a time in the direction you need your peep to rotate. Adding twists to the top end will have a greater impact on the peep than twisting the sting on the bottom cam. I prefer to add twists to strings and cables because taking twists out can cause the serving to loosen. If you need to get your peep to rotate left consider adding twists (until the peep sits completely backwards) then taking your peep out and flipping it completely around.

Moving Strands
When twisting your strings doesn’t work try removing the peep and splitting the string with a different set of strands on each side. Most archers separate strands according to color, which isn’t necessary . Try moving a couple strands from each side to the other, maintaining the same number on both sides of the peep. This will become a bit of a guess and check game. Take your time.

A new Peep Sight
Several companies make a peep sight with tubing attached, which ties to the buss cable by a piece of surgical tubing. Or you could add a peep sight aligner. The tubing pulls on the opposite side of the peep to line it up at full draw.

These products don’t provide a perfect solution. The tubing will wear out over time and pulls on the peep in an upwards direction, often causing the peep to creep higher. Also, the tubing can affect the speed of the bow and create torque on the string. I’ve heard customers say, “I don’t want to take any chances with peep rotation,” when explaining why they use such a peep. I had one on a Quest a few years ago and had as many issues with the tubing as I did with rotation. Start out with no tubing, and if you can’t seem to fix the issues, attach tubing as a last resort.

Conclusion
Most of the time a little work with the D-loop will solve the problem. If it becomes a pain and you find yourself twisting the knots before every shot, take the bow into your local shop and have them twist your string or separate strands. A new peep could solve the problem but also might create other issues. Lastly, your peep doesn’t have to align perfectly. As long as your confident you can see through it to make a kill shot, then good enough is good enough.

Thank you for reading,

Stu.

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