Pirastro Peg Compound

Maintenance • Peg Care

Fixes pegs that slip or stick. A small amount applied to the peg shank restores the right balance of grip and movement so your instrument stays in tune.

What It Is The right friction for smooth, stable pegs

Peg compound is a specialised paste formulated to sit between the peg shank and the pegbox wall. It solves both common peg problems: pegs that slip back and lose tuning, and pegs that are so stiff they cannot be turned smoothly. One small stick of compound addresses both issues by adjusting the friction coefficient of the wood contact.

Pirastro's formulation is specifically made for bowed string instruments, where the tolerances in the pegbox are small and the wrong product can cause damage. It applies to the peg shank, not the pegbox, and is designed to transfer evenly during use.

This is the standard Symphonia workshop recommendation for routine peg maintenance.

Key Specs

Brand

Pirastro (Germany)

Suitable for

Violin, viola, cello

Solves

Slipping or stiff pegs

Application

Direct to peg shank

Format

Solid stick / paste

Price

$21.00 NZD

When to Use Two problems, one solution Slipping peg

The string loses pitch during playing or between sessions. The peg turns back under string tension. Apply compound to add grip. Stiff peg

The peg is difficult to turn and requires force, which risks damaging the pegbox. Apply a small amount to smooth the action.

How to Use Light application, test, repeat

Remove the string and withdraw the peg from the pegbox. Apply a very small amount of compound to the two contact areas on the shank, roughly where the peg touches the pegbox walls. Re-insert the peg, re-string, and test the action before tuning up to pitch.

If the peg was slipping, the added grip should hold. If it was stiff, the compound acts as a light lubricant on the dry wood contact. Apply more only if one application is insufficient. A small amount goes a long way.

Peg compound is a routine workshop product. If your peg problems persist after applying, the pegbox may need professional fitting rather than additional compound. Ask in store.

Care Storage Keep it in your case

Store at room temperature away from direct heat. The compound will last many applications. Cap it after use and keep it in your case pocket so it is available at the next string change or whenever seasonal humidity shifts require a peg touch-up.

Frequently Asked Questions How often should I apply it?

Apply when you notice a problem, typically once at each string change or when seasonal humidity shifts cause pegs to slip or tighten. Do not apply on a schedule if the pegs are working well. Will it damage the pegbox?

Used correctly, no. Apply only to the peg shank at the contact zones, never inside the pegbox itself. Avoid over-application. If significant amounts of compound build up inside the pegbox over many years, a luthier can clean it during a routine setup. Can it fix a peg that has gone completely out of fit?

No. If a peg is badly fitted or the pegbox has worn or cracked, compound is not the right solution. That needs a luthier to re-fit or replace the peg. Compound works well for seasonal adjustments and light slipping or sticking. Does it work the same for slipping and stiff pegs?

Yes. The formulation balances lubrication and grip so that it reduces excessive friction (stiff) and prevents total slip (slipping). Apply to both contact bands on the shank regardless of which problem you are correcting. Does it work for cello pegs?

Yes. suitable for violin, viola, and cello. Cello pegs are larger and may require slightly more compound than violin pegs to see the same effect.

Need a hand?

Our workshop can apply and fit at Symphonia Strings

57-59 Wellington St, Freemans Bay, Auckland 🔨