The Comprehensive Guide to Peep Sights

Jackson

7 years ago

A Guide to Peep Sights

Regardless of what purpose you will be using your bow, you will need to shoot with accuracy. After all, what’s the point of using your bow if you’re not going to hit your targets? One of the best ways to improve your accuracy is with the help of a sight. There are different designs of sights available, with each of them having its own list of advantages and disadvantages. Peep sights are one of the simplest forms of sight, but they are more than adequate if used properly.

What Are Peep Sights?

The peep sight is considered as probably the first aiming device ever made. Used for all kinds of shooting devices ranging from bows to assault rifles, the peep sight helps improve shooting accuracy by enhancing the focus of your eyes. Basically, the peep sight works by improving your eye’s ability to see what’s in front. In other words, it helps your eye to accurately judge its target, resulting into more accurate shooting. The science behind peep sights is that looking through a small gap enhances focus, improving aim and accuracy on the process.

Traditionalists love the peep sight, and they have some distinct advantages over other aiming devices. Here are some of the advantages you can enjoy if you choose to use peep sights for your bow.

Easy to use – One of the best things about the peep sight is its simplicity. Using this device is easy. All you have to do is focus your eye on the sight and you’ll have a clearer look at your targets. Installation and maintenance are also simple. You won’t need batteries to use this device, and it is not prone to common issues such as fogging. A more detailed look at how to use your peep sight will be discussed at a later part of this article.
Low price – The peep sight is remarkably inexpensive. With alternative aiming devices such as optics and lasers being quite expensive, it is a relief to know that you can purchase an aiming device at an affordable price. When you consider the accuracy of these devices, the peep sight is the most cost-effective aiming aid you can get for your bows.
Accurate – Of course, an aiming device is useless if it is not accurate. The peep sight is a time-tested device with remarkable accuracy. In fact, the best peep sights are tested to be accurate in distances of up to 200 meters. This may not seem much, but that is a lot of useful range for most purposes. The peep sight is proof that you don’t need to spend a ton of money to get an accurate and useful aiming device.

How Do They Work?

You must be wondering how the peep sight works. In the earlier part of this article, we discussed the mechanism behind the function of this sight. While that partially answers the question, you can better appreciate how the device work by actually learning how to use it. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use your peep sight.

Find the right-sized peep sight – Size matters when it comes to using peep sights. There are some situations when using a smaller sight is better, and there are also situations when going for a larger sight actually helps you. Basically, going for a sight with a smaller aperture allows for better accuracy and range, as it gives a clearer and more focused view of the target. A small peep sight is better for shooting in broad daylight and situations where obstructions are minimal. In darker environments, a peep sight with a larger aperture is a better choice as it improves low light visibility.
Properly install the sight – You will also need to learn how to properly install your peep sight. This is because improper installation could lead to inaccurate shooting, and can even damage either your peep sight or your bow. Installation instructions are slightly different for different kinds of bows. A later part of this book will focus on how you can install a peep sight in your bow properly.
Learn to take aim – One thing about using peep sights is that you actually have to get used to using it. People who are just getting started in using peep sights tend to shoot their targets either too high or too low in the first few tries. It is recommended that you do some practice shots with your bow during the first few times that you’re using a sight. Eventually, you will find your sweet spot when aiming. However, if your aim is still off, you might have to consider adjusting your peep in the string. The peep should also be anchored securely, as even normal use can move it.

Best Peep Sights on the Market Today

1. G5 Outdoors Meta Pro Peep Hunter Sight

G5 Outdoors has patented a convex interior diameter for this sight. This design helps in maximizing field of view even under low light conditions. This design also helps in providing a perfect circle aim when the peep is tilted. The string groove is likewise designed to be convex, allowing the sight to make contact with the string at a smaller surface area. This significantly reduces string wear, prolonging the lifespan of your bow string. In fact, G5 Outdoors is so confident with their design that their product comes with a “No-cut Guarantee”. Available in different sizes and colors, the G5 Outdoors Meta Pro Peep Hunter Sight is one of the best products of its kind right now.

One thing going for this product is it works, plain and simple. Nearly all people who bought this product loved its accuracy, saying that it significantly helped them improve their aim. Many also like its build quality, noting how sturdy it looks. Another thing going for this product is the number of options available. Aside from being available in 3 different aperture sizes, you can also get this product in 6 different colors. If you are looking for a peep sight that works, then this is the product made exactly for you.

Radical Archery Designs Super Deuce 38

This peep sight designed by Radical Archery Designs is made for the serious archer. It is built using anodized aluminum for light weight and excellent durability. It is mounted into the string at a 38 degree angle (hence the name) to provide users with a true round aperture at full draw. It has dual radius slotting that removes sharp points that can damage strings. It also has a safety groove that prevents accidental removal during dry fire. Available in different aperture sizes and colors, you can pick the Super Deuce 38 that fits your needs.

The Radical Archery Designs Super Deuce 38 has garnered strong reviews from those who have used it. People like it because it is easy to install and its rounded design protects the string from damage. It is also very accurate if installed properly, resulting to improved shooting almost right away. Perhaps the only downside to using this peep is that it might take some time before you get used to it. Overall, this peep gets the job done and should be able to provide excellent value for your money.

Precision Peeps Sight

This product by Precision Peeps has a design that is completely different compared to other peep sights available on the market today. It has a unique vertical post found inside the peep. You can use this post as an additional point of reference for aiming. The idea is that instead of lining up 2 different apertures, you can line up the pin at the top of the post, making it easier for you to aim your shots. With this extra point of reference available, you can theoretically improve your shooting accuracy.

The reviews of the Precision Peeps Sight are mostly positive, a testament to the general effectiveness of this unconventional peep sight. The vertical post does its job as advertised. While that alone won’t raise your accuracy, it at least provides an additional point of reference for aiming should you be uncomfortable with traditional aiming. Of course, just like with any unconventional design, it will take some time to get used to it. However, once you get accustomed to its design, it does help with accuracy. Overall, it’s a good-quality product with a different approach.

How to Install a Peep Sight

Learning how to install your peep sight is crucial for maximum accuracy (and therefore maximum enjoyment). The installation process for recurve bows and compound bows are slightly different, but both procedures are not too complicated.

For Recurve Bows:

First, place your bow on its side. The side of the bow where you will place your sight should be facing upward. The sight should be aligned facing the front of your bow. Line up the holes in your sight with the holes found in the riser of your bow. With the help of a screwdriver or an Allen wrench, mount the sight into the bow. Check if your bow is at the right level using a string level. Place the level on the sight until it is accurately aimed. Once done, fully tighten the screws to secure the aim in its place, making sure that the arrow, when placed in your bow, does not come in contact with your sight. Adjust the telescoping frame of the sight to avoid eye strain while shooting.

For Compound Bows:

With the help of a bow press, determine the ideal position to place your peep sight. The ideal position is where you can accurately locate the center of the string. Mount the sight in place with the help of a screwdriver or an Allen wrench. Confirm if the sight is centered by making a practice aim, checking if your eyes are correctly aligned with the sight. Your peep sight should go square with your eye, no matter how many times you try and aim it. Adjust the height of the sight if needed. Once the aim is properly positioned, tie in the sight using the stop knots found at the top and bottom of the peep sight.

Conclusion

Just to recap everything, the peep sight is a device that helps improve your aim by improving your eye’s focus on its target. While not as advanced as other aiming devices, it is still very useful, thanks to its simple design, affordability, easy usability, and solid accuracy in most shooting conditions. You can choose from different aperture sizes for use in different shooting conditions. Installing a peep sight in a recurve or compound bow is relatively simple. However, if you find it too difficult, you can ask the help of a professional for proper installation.