LTD Kirk Hammett KH-V Red Sparkle Electric Guitar W/FREE CASE

Description

As the lead guitarist for Metallica, the biggest heavy metal band of all time, Kirk Hammett has inspired generations of musicians over the past 40+ years. Kirk’s solos are a crucial part of Metallica’s dominating sound, and he has relied on ESP for decades to make guitars that meet his every need.

The LTD KH-V is the newest addition to the Kirk Hammett Signature Series. This guitar is Red Sparkle with gold hardware and gold pickguard.

The KH-V offers neck-thru-body construction, with an extra-thin U-shaped three-piece maple neck and korina body at 25.5” scale. Its Macassar ebony fingerboard features pearloid wave inlays and 24 extra-jumbo frets.

The sound of the KH-V is powered by a set of Kirk’s signature EMG Bone Breaker pickups, with the BB-B ceramic bridge and the BB-N alnico 5 neck pickups for crisp, crushing leads or smooth, rounded rhythm tones at the flip of a switch. Controls of the KH-V include volume, tone, and a three-way pickup selector toggle. Other pro features include a TonePros bridge with string-thru-body and LTD locking tuners.

A Must-Have for Metallica Fans

The ESP LTD KH-V Red Sparkle guitar, a Kirk Hammett (Metallica) signature model, is a killer choice for several reasons, especially if you’re into metal or just want a standout instrument. Here’s why it’s an awesome guitar:

Sick Tone for Metal and Beyond: It’s loaded with EMG Bone Breaker pickups (BB-B ceramic bridge, BB-N Alnico 5 neck), designed with Kirk Hammett for crushing, articulate leads and smooth rhythms. These active humbuckers deliver crisp, aggressive distortion for metal but also handle clean tones with surprising clarity, making it versatile for various styles.

Shred-Friendly Design: The neck-thru-body construction with a 3-piece maple neck and extra-thin U profile is built for speed. Paired with a Macassar ebony fingerboard, 24 extra-jumbo frets, and a 350mm radius, it’s perfect for lightning-fast solos and easy upper-fret access, especially with the SV-inspired body cutaway. Reviewers rave about its playability right out of the case.

Head-Turning Looks: The Red Sparkle finish with gold hardware and a gold pickguard screams stage presence. Its slightly asymmetrical V-shaped korina body not only looks badass but also resonates with a mahogany-like tone and sustain, honoring classic V traditions while feeling modern. Fans love the pearloid wave inlays for that extra Metallica vibe.

Premium Features, Solid Value: At $1,799, it’s a steal compared to high-end models like Gibson’s $15,000 Hammett Flying V replica. You get pro-grade components like a TonePros locking TOM bridge with string-thru-body for enhanced sustain, LTD locking tuners for tuning stability, and a deluxe hardshell case. The craftsmanship is top-notch, with users noting flawless finishes and setups.

Lightweight and Comfortable: Weighing around 7.4–8 pounds (3.55kg for some models), it’s lighter than many solidbodies like a Les Paul, making it great for long gigs or practice sessions. The contoured SV shape adds comfort, with an armrest-like upper contour and improved ergonomics.

Kirk Hammett Legacy: This is a signature model from one of metal’s greatest guitarists, built to his specs for Metallica’s dominating sound. Owning it connects you to that legacy, whether you’re a fan or just want a guitar designed for serious performance. It’s also available in Black Sparkle and Metallic Gold, but Red Sparkle pops hardest.

Collector’s Appeal: As part of the Kirk Hammett Signature Series, it’s a modern take on a metal classic. Limited-edition sparkle finishes (like the related Ouija models) often become collector’s items

This guitar includes ESP deluxe hardshell case.

LTD KH-V Demo Video