I will NEVER install a peep or start serving without relaxing the string. I've seen too many people try to start it using a tool, or a thumbnail, or something... and seen them cut little tiny strands inside the string. It would probably never be enough to really affect anything, but it causes the start of the splice to "fuzz" up and you're continually having to take a lighter and touch up the area... I like my bows and strings to look and be absolutely perfect, so it's definitely not for me.