James Hetfield Signature Guitars: ESP & LTD

Few rhythm players are as closely tied to their guitars as James Hetfield, and this series puts his stage instruments in your hands. The Snakebyte, Iron Cross and Vulture are built around set-neck construction, which gives a solid connection between neck and body for sustain and attack. EMG JH "Het Set" pickups supply the tight, driven tone that carries through a loud band mix.

Each shape sits differently on a strap. The Iron Cross and Snakebyte have their own outlines, and the Vulture rounds out the family, so it is worth trying more than one if you can. Finishes include Black Satin, Snow White, Snow White with Black Stripes and Olympic White. Left-handed Iron Cross and Snakebyte models mean lefties get the same signature experience. Gigging metal and hard rock players will feel at home, and so will Metallica collectors.

Choose your tier by how you plan to use it. LTD models make the signature designs more reachable for working players. ESP versions are the premium step up for those who want the top-tier piece. LV Guitars currently stocks a range from about $1,499 to $6,149.