Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (5)
$1,299.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (9)
$1,299.00
Reverb
5.0 (2)
$1,157.98 New
$899.00 Used
Musician's Friend
3.0 (1)
$999.00
zZounds
$1,199.00
Thomann
4.8 (11)
$989.00
Gear4Music
£999.00

Average Price: $1,230

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Product Description:

The Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V is a beautiful tribute to the guitar that shaped the sound of heavy metal. This is not just a guitar, it is a piece of history, embodying the soul of Metallica's iconic albums like 'Kill 'Em All', 'Ride the Lightning' and 'Master of Puppets'. This guitar allows you to tap into the legendary sound that has influenced countless guitarists.

The guitar's aggressive, retro-futuristic styling is a nod to its roots in the heavier genres of music. The bold purple metallic finish captures the spirit of the late '70s, a time of experimentation and unique embellishments. Yet, its timeless design makes it fit for any era, appreciated by daring guitarists with a taste for the intrepid.

The Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V is equipped with Gibson USA Calibrated T-Type humbuckers, delivering the growling, biting tone that is synonymous with Metallica's celebrated material. These pickups provide definition under high gain, a sharp attack for solos and a guttural sound for palm mutes, all of which form the foundation of Kirk Hammett's signature sound.

Hardware and components are top-notch, contributing to the overall quality of this guitar. From CTS potentiometers to an Orange Drop capacitor, every piece has been carefully selected to ensure superior performance.

Key Features:

  • Meticulous recreation of Kirk Hammett's original 1979 Gibson Flying V
  • Bold purple metallic finish with retro-futuristic styling
  • Gibson USA Calibrated T-Type humbuckers for a biting metal tone
  • High-quality hardware including CTS potentiometers, Orange Drop capacitor, Switchcraft pickup toggle and output jack
  • Grover Rotomatic tuning machines with spade buttons
  • One-piece mahogany neck with Indian laurel fingerboard
  • Kirk Hammett logo on the back of the headstock
  • Comes with a black hardshell case with red plush interior.

Product specs

Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Solidbody
Body Shape Flying V
Body Material Mahogany
Body Finish Gloss Polyurethane
Neck Material Mahogany
Neck Joint Set Neck
Radius 12"
Fingerboard Inlay Mother of Pearl Dots
Number of Frets 22
Scale Length 24.75"
Nut Width 1.692"
Nut Material Graph Tech
Bridge/Tailpiece Custom Bridge & LockTone Stop Bar
Tuners Grover Rotomatic with Spade Button
Neck Pickup Gibson USA Calibrated T-Type Humbucker
Bridge Pickup Gibson USA Calibrated T-Type Humbucker
Controls 2 x volume, 1 x tone
Switching 3-way toggle pickup switch
Strings Gibson, .010-.046
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V?

The Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V features a mahogany neck with a set neck joint, providing a comfortable and fast-playing profile suitable for heavy metal and rock styles.

What type of pickups are installed in the Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V?

This guitar is equipped with Gibson USA Calibrated T-Type Humbuckers, delivering powerful and articulate tones ideal for hard rock and metal genres.

Is the Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V suitable for beginners?

While this guitar is designed with professional features, its comfortable neck and versatile tone make it suitable for dedicated beginners who are fans of Kirk Hammett or the Flying V style.

Does the Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V come with a case?

Yes, the Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V includes a hardshell case, providing excellent protection for the guitar during transport and storage.

How does the Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V handle tuning stability?

The guitar features Grover Rotomatic tuners with spade buttons, which offer reliable tuning stability and smooth tuning adjustments, essential for live performances and studio sessions.

OfficialEpiphone

OfficialEpiphone

Introducing The Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V

Video thumbnail for Introducing The Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V by OfficialEpiphone

Introducing The Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V

OfficialEpiphone

OfficialEpiphone

Video thumbnail for Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V Review by Mythos Pedals

Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V Review

Mythos Pedals

Mythos Pedals

Video thumbnail for Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V - An ICON Of Heavy Metal History! by PMTVUK

Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V - An ICON Of Heavy Metal History!

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Epiphone Kirk Hammett Flying V FULL DEMO by Play and Trade Guitars

Epiphone Kirk Hammett Flying V FULL DEMO

Play and Trade Guitars

Play and Trade Guitars

Video thumbnail for Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V (BEST Features) by Play and Trade Guitars

Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V (BEST Features)

Play and Trade Guitars

Play and Trade Guitars

Video thumbnail for No Talking...Just Tones | Epiphone Artist Collection | Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V - Ebony by Peach Guitars

No Talking...Just Tones | Epiphone Artist Collection | Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V - Ebony

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

Video thumbnail for Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V - Sound Demo by Guitar Bonedo

Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V - Sound Demo

Guitar Bonedo

Guitar Bonedo

Reviews

PROS

  • Legendary design with iconic Flying V shape

  • Custom Gibson American-made pickups deliver clear, tough tones

  • Period-correct bridge and shorty headstock add vintage appeal

  • Plays better than some higher-priced guitars

  • Suitable for collectors and Metallica fans

  • Great sound and playability on various amps

  • Comes with a hardshell case, ideal for Flying V models

  • Massive neck preferred by some players

CONS

  • Strap locks are poorly placed, causing balance issues

  • Intonation may need adjustment out of the box

  • Considered expensive for a Chinese-made guitar

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V.

Mods and upgrades

  • Some users add thumb bleeders for easier volume and tone adjustments during play.

    Source
  • Custom pickguards can be ordered from WD Music to accommodate changes in control placements while maintaining the original look.

    Source
  • Owners have swapped knobs to black chrome tops and removed the fake poker chip for a more personalized aesthetic.

    Source
  • Some owners plan to upgrade to EMGs for more authentic Kirk Hammett tones, suggesting it's a common mod for fans.

    Source
  • Owners recommend adding nickel covers for aesthetics and making control adjustments for ergonomic preferences.

    Source

User experience

  • Although some users dislike the rounded headstock, it's appreciated for its historical accuracy to the 1970s models.

    Source
  • One owner reports minor setup issues like imperfect fret leveling and a less-than-ideal stock nut but still finds the guitar worth its price.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Hammett V differs from the standard production Flying V with its 67' body shape and pickguard, contrasting with the 58' body shape of the regular model.

    Source
  • The Epiphone model uniquely combines a 70s-style headstock with T Type pickups, unlike any current Gibson production model.

    Source
  • The Epiphone Kirk Hammett V is noted to be more accurate to a 70s V than some Gibson models, featuring a smaller headstock and volute.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Kirk Hammett model comes with a case, adding to its value compared to other Epiphone models.

    Source
  • For $1299, the guitar offers a custom color and premium parts, making it attractive to those not necessarily fans of Metallica.

    Source
  • It's mentioned that the guitar can often be found used for $800-$900, offering better value than buying new.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some owners find the control placement on the Kirk Hammett V to be tight, which may require swapping for ergonomic adjustments.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Epiphone Kirk Hammett V features a 67' body shape with a rounded headstock and a volute, reflecting its 70s design.

    Source
  • The pristine condition of the headstock is highly praised for its visual appeal.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Kirk Hammett V includes Gibson T-Humbuckers and Grover tuners, contributing to its unique sound and playability.

    Source
  • The T Type pickups are described as hotter with a mid hump, suitable for 80s rock tones.

    Source
  • The guitar includes premium components like Switchcraft jack and toggle, Mallory tone cap, and CTS pots.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Epiphone launches Kirk Hammett signature 1979 Flying V | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Epiphone's Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V is a remarkable homage to the iconic guitar, delivering a well-crafted, affordable version of a legendary instrument. With its striking aesthetics, solid mahogany body, and quality features like Gibson USA pickups, it caters perfectly to Metallica fans and aspiring rockers alike. While the rounded C neck and Indian laurel fretboard may not satisfy every purist, they do provide comfortable playability. The notable price difference from the Gibson Custom Shop model makes it a compelling choice, but some players might miss the premium feel of higher-end builds. Overall, this signature model is an impressive entry point for those seeking to channel their inner Hammett without breaking the bank.

positive

Epiphone teams up with Kirk Hammett for an affordable “painstaking recreation” of his 1979 Flying V

guitar.com

Epiphone's collaboration with Kirk Hammett delivers an affordable homage to his iconic 1979 Flying V, presenting a well-crafted instrument at a fraction of the price of its Gibson counterpart. The guitar's specs, featuring a mahogany body and quality pickups, reflect solid craftsmanship aimed at both aspiring and established musicians. However, while the aesthetics and price point are commendable, some may find it lacks the unique character of its more expensive sibling. Still, Hammett's endorsement and the accessible pricing make this a compelling choice for fans and players alike. Overall, it strikes an impressive balance between quality and affordability.

positive

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kirk Hammett uses Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V

Kirk Hammett

Guitarist

Metallica

...
Verified via Photo

Kirk Hammett's signature Epiphone Flying V can be seen in this video and comes in Ebony and Purple Metallic finishes.

See how Marcos Curiel uses Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V

Marcos Curiel

Singer, Guitarist

P.O.D.

...
Verified via Photo

Marcos Curiel showcases his Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V in a post on his official Instagram, expressing his excitement about it as a Christmas gift from Kelly Marie.

See how SANTA uses Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V

SANTA

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo
Color/Finish: Black

In this photo from the official Gibson website, SANTA can be seen playing an Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V. The exact model is mentioned on her artist page on Gibson's website.

See how Auroro Borealo uses Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V

Auroro Borealo

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo
Color/Finish: Purple Metallic Year: 2023

In a photo posted on Instagram by Auroro Borealo on May 26, 2025, the artist is seen performing live with an Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V in Purple Metallic.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

1 alternative for Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V, curated by the Equipboard community.

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