Radical Archery Designs RAD P-38 Peep Sight Review

First Impressions of Radical Archery Designs RAD P-38 Peep Sight

The Radical Archery Designs RAD P-38 Peep Sight is a seemingly simple, yet crucial component in any archer’s setup. At first glance, this little aluminum circle promises improved accuracy and consistency, vital for both target practice and hunting. Radical Archery Designs aims to deliver a reliable peep sight at an accessible price point, but can it live up to the demands of serious archers?

I’ve struggled with inconsistent anchor points for years, resulting in frustratingly wide shot groups. A dependable peep sight seemed like the logical next step. I’ve tried peep sights before, cheap plastic ones that warped under string pressure and caused blurred sight pictures.

The RAD P-38 arrived in minimalist packaging, a small plastic bag. Immediately, I noted the clean finish and the absence of any sharp edges or obvious imperfections. The aircraft grade aluminum construction feels solid, a definite step up from the polymer peeps I’ve used in the past.

I was considering a more expensive peep sight with integrated verifiers, but the price of the Radical Archery Designs RAD P-38 Peep Sight was too tempting to ignore. Ultimately, I chose the RAD P-38 for its promise of durability, simplicity, and affordability. Initial excitement is tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism, eager to see how it performs in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Radical Archery Designs RAD P-38 Peep Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local archery range, both indoors and outdoors. I installed the RAD P-38 on my compound bow, a process that required a bow press and some basic knowledge of bow tuning. The installation itself went smoothly, with the peep settling nicely into the bowstring.

Performance in various conditions proved insightful. Under bright sunlight, the Low glare painted epoxy finish did indeed minimize reflections, providing a clear sight picture. During a brief rain shower, the peep remained securely in place, with no noticeable slippage or performance degradation.

The sight picture was clear and consistent, even without a clarifier lens. However, it took a few shots to establish a consistent anchor point with the new peep. I was pleasantly surprised by the improved consistency in my shot groups after just a few dozen arrows.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Radical Archery Designs RAD P-38 Peep Sight continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of wear and tear, despite repeated use and exposure to varying weather conditions. The aluminum construction appears to be quite robust.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth to remove dust or debris. I’ve not needed to make any adjustments since the initial installation. Previously, I used a rubber peep sight that constantly stretched and needed frequent readjustment, but the RAD P-38 has been far more stable and reliable.

My confidence in my archery setup has increased noticeably. The RAD P-38 has allowed me to focus on my form and aiming, rather than constantly worrying about my peep sight shifting or distorting my sight picture. It outperforms my previous peep sights by a significant margin, offering improved consistency and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Radical Archery Designs RAD P-38 Peep Sight

Specifications

The Radical Archery Designs RAD P-38 Peep Sight boasts several key specifications. It is constructed from Aircraft grade aluminum, ensuring durability and resistance to deformation. The Low glare painted epoxy finish reduces reflections, providing a clearer sight picture in bright conditions.

The RAD P-38 features Burr free string slots, preventing string fraying and ensuring smooth operation. Its Soft string contours minimize wear on the bowstring, extending its lifespan. The peep sight comes in Black color.

These specifications translate directly to improved performance and user experience. The aluminum construction guarantees the peep will maintain its shape and alignment under string tension. The low-glare finish eliminates distractions, while the smooth string slots protect the bowstring from damage.

Performance & Functionality

The Radical Archery Designs RAD P-38 Peep Sight performs its core function admirably. It provides a consistent anchor point and a clear sight picture, leading to improved accuracy and consistency. The peep sight sits securely in the bowstring, without rotating or slipping.

Its strengths lie in its simplicity, durability, and affordability. It is a basic, no-frills peep sight that does its job effectively. One potential weakness is the lack of included clarifier lens, which may be necessary for archers with less-than-perfect vision.

It meets and exceeds expectations for a peep sight in this price range. It provides a solid, reliable, and consistent sight picture. It has improved my shot groupings and has increased my confidence in my archery setup.

Design & Ergonomics

The Radical Archery Designs RAD P-38 Peep Sight features a simple, functional design. The aluminum construction feels solid and well-made. The peep is lightweight and does not add noticeable weight to the bowstring.

The RAD P-38 is designed for ease of use, with a straightforward installation process. There is no learning curve, making it accessible to archers of all skill levels.

Durability & Maintenance

The Radical Archery Designs RAD P-38 Peep Sight is built to last. The aircraft grade aluminum construction provides excellent resistance to wear and tear. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth. The epoxy finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Radical Archery Designs RAD P-38 Peep Sight does not come with any additional accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket clarifier lenses and peep sight tubing. Archers can customize their sight picture by adding a clarifier lens to improve clarity.

It is also compatible with various peep sight alignment tools, such as rubber tubing, which can help to ensure consistent alignment. This allows archers to fine-tune their setup to achieve optimal performance.

Pros and Cons of Radical Archery Designs RAD P-38 Peep Sight