Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (19)
$1,599.00
Guitar Center
4.0 (21)
$1,599.00
Amazon
4.3 (40)
$1,599.00 New
$1,355.00 Used (Very Good)
Reverb
5.0 (1)
$6,732.94 5 available New
Musician's Friend
5.0 (5)
$1,599.00
zZounds
5.0 (10)
$1,599.00
Thomann
4.6 (30)
$1,555.00
Gear4Music
£1,427.00

Average Price: $2,326

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "ESP James Hetfield Signature "Iron Cross" Electric Guitar". 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

In a world where metal reigns supreme, the ESP James Hetfield Signature "Iron Cross" Electric Guitar stands as a true testament to uncompromising power and precision. Born from the collaboration with Metallica's iconic frontman, this instrument embodies Hetfield's ferocity and finesse. The EMG JH humbuckers, specially designed for this guitar, deliver a tone that's both clear and aggressive, perfect for the complex demands of hard rock and metal.

The Iron Cross is not just about sound; its aesthetic is equally commanding. Adorned with the distinctive Iron Cross inlays and custom graphics, this guitar is a visual masterpiece that demands attention. A body crafted from mahogany ensures resonant depth, while a maple top adds clarity and articulation. The neck, with its thin "U" shape and extra-jumbo frets, invites you to explore fast runs and precise note hits, making it ideal for both rhythm and lead players.

With premium components like a TonePros locking TOM bridge and LTD locking tuners, this guitar promises rock-solid stability and impressive sustain. Whether you're thrashing on stage or practicing at home, the Iron Cross is your steadfast partner. And for those who demand reliability on the road, it comes with a rugged gig bag, ensuring protection and peace of mind.

Key Features:

  • Signature Iron Cross artwork and custom inlays
  • Dual EMG JH Het Set signature pickups for clear, aggressive tone
  • Mahogany body with maple top for resonant sound and articulation
  • Thin U-shaped neck profile with extra-jumbo frets for fast, precise playability
  • TonePros locking TOM bridge and LTD locking tuners for tuning stability
  • Rugged gig bag included for protection and easy transport

Product specs

Brand ESP
Model Iron Cross James Hetfield Signature
Finish Snow White
Year 2014 - 2025
Made In Japan
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family White
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the ESP James Hetfield Signature "Iron Cross" guitar?

The ESP James Hetfield Signature "Iron Cross" guitar features a thin U neck contour, providing a comfortable and fast playing experience suitable for both rhythm and lead guitarists.

What kind of pickups does the ESP Iron Cross guitar use?

The ESP Iron Cross is equipped with EMG JH Signature active pickups, designed to deliver powerful and articulate tones ideal for heavy metal and rock music.

Is the ESP James Hetfield Signature "Iron Cross" guitar suitable for beginners?

While the ESP Iron Cross is a high-quality instrument with advanced features, its premium construction and active pickups may be better suited for intermediate to advanced players familiar with handling professional-grade guitars.

What materials are used in the construction of the ESP Iron Cross guitar?

The ESP Iron Cross features a mahogany body and neck with a maple top and an ebony fretboard, providing a rich and resonant sound with a smooth playing surface.

Does the ESP Iron Cross guitar include a case?

Yes, the ESP James Hetfield Signature "Iron Cross" guitar comes with a case, ensuring protection and easy transport for the instrument.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP James Hetfield Signature "Iron Cross" Electric Guitar.

Build quality

  • It's noted that the LTD Iron Cross has a slimmer body width compared to a Gibson, offering enhanced comfort.

    Source
  • There are observations about the Iron Cross's finish potentially aging to a creamy color over time, similar to an Olympic white.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners mention that input nuts can come loose, a minor issue to watch for on LTD models.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The LTD Iron Cross neck radius is flatter at 350mm (13.7 inches) compared to the ESP's 305mm (12 inches), aligning more with Gibson Les Paul feel.

    Source
  • The MX250 uses EMG 81/60 pickups, which deliver a classic Metallica sound, differing from the Iron Cross's Het Set.

    Source

User experience

  • A user compares their LTD to a Gibson Les Paul as 35% "better" while costing three times less, highlighting its strong value proposition.

    Source
  • Owners report that the Iron Cross is around 9 pounds, making it notably lighter than the Snakebyte, which can weigh about 13 pounds.

    Source
  • Some players find the Iron Cross more comfortable than Explorer shapes when played for extended periods due to its lighter weight.

    Source
  • The Iron Cross is considered more comfortable for Les Paul players, as it feels familiar in terms of shape and playability.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • An owner uses an ESP LTD Deluxe with EMG pickups for classic metal tones, likening its performance favorably to that of bands like Metallica.

    Source
  • The EMG Het Set on the Iron Cross is praised for its clean bridge sound, making it versatile for tones beyond heavy metal.

    Source
  • The Iron Cross is favored for its Les Paul-like design, making it a favorite for those accustomed to that iconic shape.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Iron Cross features the EMG Het Set pickups, which are noted for having a great clean tone in the bridge position.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Original Japanese custom shop models like the MX250 are valued between $12,000 to $18,000, with white ones perceived as rarer and more expensive.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
M

ESP LTD Iron Cross

The ESP LTD iron cross, play it in drop C tuning.

harley_charlonne

James

Harley Has A ESP Iron Cross Electric Guitar

Artist usage

Add artist
See how James Hetfield uses ESP James Hetfield Signature "Iron Cross" Electric Guitar

James Hetfield

Singer, Guitarist

Metallica

...
Verified via YouTube

During the video, James is holding his signature ESP Iron Cross guitar.

Genre Usage

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

More ESP Solid Body Electric Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides