Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $1,366
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "1981 Dean ML Dean From Hell". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
The 1981 Dean ML Dean From Hell is not just an electric guitar; it's a legendary tribute to the iconic sounds of Dimebag Darrell. Designed for musicians who crave the raw power and distinctive tone that defined a generation, this guitar is a must-have for any serious shredder. With its aggressive, angular design and signature Floyd Rose tremolo system, this instrument screams heavy metal from every angle.
Crafted from top-quality materials, the Dean From Hell features a solid body that delivers both sustain and resonance, making it perfect for those face-melting solos and crushing riffs. The set neck construction enhances playability, allowing for smooth transitions across the fretboard. Its high-output humbucker pickups are engineered to capture every nuance of your performance, providing incredible clarity and punch.
Whether you're performing on stage or jamming in your garage, this guitar is built to withstand the rigors of any environment. Its fast-playing neck and expertly finished frets make it a joy to play, while the unique body shape ensures you'll stand out visually as much as sonically. Embrace the spirit of a true metal legend with the Dean ML Dean From Hell.
Key Features:
- Solid body construction for enhanced sustain and resonance
- Signature Floyd Rose tremolo system for dynamic pitch control
- High-output humbucker pickups for powerful tone
- Set neck construction for improved playability
- Unique ML body shape for a standout look
Product specs
| Body shape | Other |
| Body type | Solid Body |
| Body wood | Mahogany |
| Body finish | Gloss, Custom graphic |
| Neck shape | V |
| Neck wood | Mahogany |
| Joint | Set-in |
| Scale length | 24.75" |
| Truss rod | Dual-action |
| Neck finish | Gloss |
| Material | Pau Ferro |
| Radius | 12" |
| Fret size | Jumbo |
| Number of frets | 22 |
| Inlays | Pearloid Dot |
| Nut width/material | 1.69” (43 mm) Locking |
| Configuration | HH |
| Neck | Proprietary Humbucker |
| Bridge | Seymour Duncan Humbucker |
| Control layout | Individual volume, Master tone |
| Pickup switch | 3-Way |
| Bridge type | Tremolo/Vibrato |
| Bridge design | Locking 2-point Fulcrum tremolo |
| Tuning machines | Die-cast Sealed |
| Number of strings | 6-string |
| Case | Sold Separately |
| Orientation | Right Handed |
| Country of Origin | India |
FAQs
-
What is the neck profile of the 1981 Dean ML Dean From Hell?
-
The neck profile of the 1981 Dean ML Dean From Hell is a V shape, which offers a comfortable grip for fast playing and is favored by many lead guitarists.
-
What type of pickups are used in the 1981 Dean ML Dean From Hell?
-
This guitar features a proprietary humbucker in the neck position and a Seymour Duncan humbucker in the bridge position, providing a powerful and versatile tone suitable for rock and metal genres.
-
Is the 1981 Dean ML Dean From Hell suitable for heavy metal music?
-
Yes, the 1981 Dean ML Dean From Hell is ideal for heavy metal music, thanks to its mahogany body, humbucker pickups, and iconic design inspired by Dimebag Darrell, a legendary metal guitarist.
-
Does the 1981 Dean ML Dean From Hell come with a case?
-
No, the 1981 Dean ML Dean From Hell does not come with a case; it is sold separately.
-
What is the scale length of the 1981 Dean ML Dean From Hell?
-
The scale length of the 1981 Dean ML Dean From Hell is 24.75 inches, which is typical for many electric guitars and contributes to its playability and tonal characteristics.
Videos
Eric Mrtn
Dimebag Darrell's Original Dean From Hell Started as THIS?! - 1981 Dean ML Review
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1981 Dean ML Dean From Hell.
Mods and upgrades
Features and functionality
-
The guitar was enhanced with a Floyd Rose tremolo system, contributing to its playability and unique style.
Source -
Dimebag Darrell used DR Dimebag Darrell Signature Strings (.009-.042) for optimal sound.
Source -
Some 2006 models are identifiable by a hand-painted skull in the tremolo spring cavity, indicating a unique build characteristic.
Source
Other
-
The Dean From Hell was initially a contest prize and later became iconic after being reunited with its original winner due to significant modifications.
Source
Setup and maintenance
-
Avoid using Floyd Rose Special tremolos due to reported durability issues; Floyd Rose 1000 is preferred.
Source
Comparisons
Use cases and applications
Value and pricing
User experience
-
One owner shared finding multiple models, including Dime Slime and Dime-O-flame, at a local guitar shop.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 5 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
In this 1994 interview, Dimebag Darrell calls his 1981 blue Dean from Hell, his workhorse guitar. "I stuck to what I've always used -- Randall amps, and my main guitar is still my blue '81 Dean with the Kiss stickers. That guitar just can't be topped. I use that on all the songs that are in standard tuning," he said.
Phil Anselmo uses the 1981 Dean ML Dean From Hell, as confirmed by a YouTube short on Pantera's official channel. The video, titled "Pantera Dean From Hell - Cleveland 7/23/25," shows Grady Champion, Dimebag's former guitar tech, preparing the original Dean From Hell for Phil Anselmo's performance of "Goddamn Electric" during a Pantera show in Cleveland on July 23, 2025. The description states, "A very special part of our past joined us onstage last night. @philiphanselmo played @dimebagdarrell OG Dean From Hell on Goddamn Electric."
Album Usage
The 1981 Dean ML Dean From Hell has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
More Dean Solid Body Electric Guitars
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Solid Body Electric Guitars
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
ssquiresGear IQ 2008
-