Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $237
High-end/Boutique
$99
$200+
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Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 6 merchants for "EMG Bone Breaker Pickups". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Unlock the essence of Kirk Hammett's legendary sound with the EMG Bone Breaker Pickups. Crafted with precision, these signature humbuckers are engineered to encapsulate the Metallica guitarist's iconic tone, characterized by a unique blend of Alnico V and ceramic magnets. Designed for versatility, the Bone Breaker set achieves a harmonious balance between raw power and crystalline clarity, without compromising on either gain or clean tones. Whether you're shredding through high-gain solos or strumming smooth rhythm sections, these pickups deliver with unwavering performance.
Incorporating a finely tuned preamp, these moderate-output humbuckers offer more than just face-melting distortion. They provide a full spectrum of tonal possibilities, from the bone-crushing grind of thrash metal to the bell-like clarity needed for precision clean playing. This makes the Bone Breaker set an ideal choice for guitarists seeking both aggressive and nuanced soundscapes. With all necessary installation components included, upgrading your guitar's voice has never been easier.
Key Features:
- Signature humbuckers designed in collaboration with Kirk Hammett
- Blend of Alnico V and ceramic magnets for versatile tonal range
- Moderate output suitable for high-gain and clean settings
- Tweaked preamp for enhanced performance
- Includes all necessary components for installation
Product specs
| Brand | EMG |
| Model | KH-BB/SET Kirk Hammett Bone Breaker Humbucker Set |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | Guitar Pickups |
FAQs
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Are EMG Bone Breaker pickups active or passive?
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The EMG Bone Breaker pickups are active humbuckers, designed with a tweaked preamp and a combination of Alnico V and ceramic magnets to deliver a powerful tone.
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What kind of tone can I expect from EMG Bone Breaker pickups?
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EMG Bone Breaker pickups provide a strong, aggressive tone with clear articulation, suitable for metal and hard rock genres, reflecting Kirk Hammett's signature sound.
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Are EMG Bone Breaker pickups suitable for both rhythm and lead guitar playing?
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Yes, the EMG Bone Breaker pickups are versatile enough for both rhythm and lead playing, offering a balanced output with excellent clarity and sustain.
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Do EMG Bone Breaker pickups require a specific type of battery?
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EMG Bone Breaker pickups, like most active pickups, require a 9V battery to power the onboard preamp.
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Can EMG Bone Breaker pickups be installed in any electric guitar?
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EMG Bone Breaker pickups can be installed in most electric guitars, but it is recommended to check the guitar's cavity space and wiring compatibility for active pickups.
Videos
Agufish
Do They WAH?! || EMG Kirk Hammett Bone Breaker Pickup Set Demo/Review
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about EMG Bone Breaker Pickups.
Features and functionality
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The Bone Breaker set is essentially a modified version of the EMG 81 and 60A, ideal for achieving chugging riffs and warm clean tones.
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Bone Breaker pickups are active and come with EMG's solderless system, avoiding the need for soldering or routing.
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Bone Breakers are perceived to have less mid-scooping compared to classic EMG models, impacting their sound profile in metal genres.
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Comparisons
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Owners prefer the Bone Breaker over stock EMG models like the 81/60 set, citing a subtle but noticeable tonal improvement.
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Fishman Fluence pickups are recommended for those dissatisfied with Bone Breakers while maintaining active pickup characteristics.
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Dimarzio D-activators are highlighted for versatile high gain, particularly useful if considering a switch to passive pickups.
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Seymour Duncan Invaders are suggested for down-tuned play, offering an alternative to the Bone Breakers for those seeking high output.
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EMG 57/66 set is frequently recommended for users looking to replace Bone Breakers for improved tonal quality.
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Value and pricing
Use cases and applications
Setup and maintenance
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Jackson Rhoads V owners may need longer output and battery cables for Bone Breaker pickups due to short stock cables.
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Mods and upgrades
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Gibson Explorers require short shaft pots for Bone Breaker installation; longer cables might be necessary based on guitar model.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
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In the YouTube video titled "Twin 'Metallica' Mod Projects Using CHEAP Guitars!! || James Hetfield-Inspired Builds," Hunter Agufish modifies two Harley Benton guitars with Metallica-inspired setups. He installs an EMG Bone Breaker pickup set, designed by Kirk Hammett, in one of the guitars.
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use EMG Bone Breaker Pickups, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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