ESP LTD KH202 guitar
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- SKU
- LKH202
- Color
- Black
Description
ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-202 Signature Electric Guitar - Black
The KH-202 delivers a compact, comfortable platform built around an extra-thin U-shaped neck that reduces fatigue during extended playing sessions. This bolt-on construction pairs a basswood body with a roasted jatoba fingerboard, creating an instrument that balances playability with tonal character. Designed to channel Kirk Hammett's aggressive metal aesthetic, this signature model combines practical hardware with distinctive styling.
Playability & Feel
The 25.5" scale with 24 XJ frets sits comfortably for both standard tuning and drop-tuned applications. A 350mm fingerboard radius and 42mm nut width lock in palm-muting technique and enable fast single-note runs, while the extra-thin U neck contour keeps your hand fresh through long rehearsals and complex passage work—essential for metal's physical demands.
Tone & Electronics
Passive circuitry with ESP Designed LH-301N (neck) and LH-301B (bridge) pickups cuts through a dense mix with focused midrange and articulate high-end response. The Floyd Rose Special bridge with locking nut locks in tuning across aggressive string bending and divebombs, while the volume/volume/tone/3-way switch layout gives you intuitive control over output and character on stage.
Key Features
- Bolt-on construction with basswood body
- Roasted jatoba fingerboard
- Maple neck with extra-thin U contour
- 25.5" scale length
- 24 XJ frets with 350mm radius
- 42mm nut width
- Floyd Rose Special bridge with locking nut
- LTD tuners with black hardware
- ESP Designed LH-301N and LH-301B passive pickups
- Volume/Volume/Tone/3-Way Switch electronics layout
- Skull-and-bones inlay at 12th fret
- Strung with D'Addario EXL120 9-42
The KH-202 combines proven metal hardware with an ergonomic neck profile, delivering a straightforward playing experience built for touring musicians and players who demand sustained comfort and reliable tuning stability night after night.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Dexterity | Right handed |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On |
Reviews
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At a Glance
The ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-202 is a mid-tier signature metal machine built for intermediate to advanced players who need drop-tuned aggression without fatigue. Its extra-thin U-shaped neck, Floyd Rose Special bridge, and focused ESP pickups deliver tight, articulate tone that cuts through a mix on stage, while the 24 frets and 350mm radius handle fast palm-muting and single-note work with confidence. Built for gigging metalheads and touring musicians who demand tuning stability through aggressive bending.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Hard Rock
- ✓ Thrash Metal
- ✓ Drop Tunings
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Folk
- – Country
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What tunings does the KH-202 handle well?
The 25.5" scale and 42mm nut width are designed for both standard tuning and aggressive drop tunings. It ships with D'Addario EXL120 9-42 strings, which suit drop-D and lower standard applications.
How does the neck feel during long playing sessions?
The extra-thin U-shaped neck contour is specifically engineered to reduce hand fatigue during extended play, making it comfortable for complex fingering patterns and fast single-note work typical of metal playing.
What kind of tone should I expect?
The passive ESP Designed LH-301N and LH-301B pickups deliver focused midrange and articulate high-end response with an aggressive character—purpose-built for metal and hard rock, not suited for jazz, folk, or country applications.
Does the Floyd Rose bridge stay in tune during aggressive playing?
Yes. The Floyd Rose Special bridge paired with a locking nut maintains tuning stability through aggressive string bending and divebombs, essential for metal technique and live reliability.
What's included and what pickups come stock?
The guitar arrives strung with D'Addario EXL120 9-42 strings and equipped with two passive ESP Designed pickups (LH-301N in the neck position, LH-301B in the bridge) controlled via a Volume/Volume/Tone/3-Way Switch layout.
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