Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $6,912

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "ESP Iron Cross (Duplicate)". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 23, 2026.

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Description

Embark on a sonic journey with the ESP Iron Cross (Duplicate), a marvel of craftsmanship that resonates with the spirit of rock legends. This exquisite instrument is not just a guitar; it's a testament to the formidable partnership between ESP and Metallica's rhythm maestro, James Hetfield. Crafted with precision and designed for those who dare to stand out, the ESP Iron Cross is more than equipped to handle the rigors of the road and the intensity of the studio.

At the heart of this solid body electric guitar lies a harmonious blend of a mahogany body and a maple top, ensuring a rich, resonant tone that's as versatile as it is powerful. The set-in neck construction, paired with an ebony fretboard, offers unparalleled playability and sustain, allowing your creativity to flow unimpeded. Whether you're shredding solos or laying down chunky riffs, the EMG JH set pickups deliver clarity, punch, and the signature Hetfield sound with every note. Complete with aesthetically pleasing snow white finish adorned with stripes and graphics, the ESP Iron Cross stands out not just for its sonic capabilities but as a piece of art.

Key Features:

  • James Hetfield (Metallica) Signature model
  • Set-in neck construction for superior sustain
  • Mahogany body paired with a maple top for a rich, resonant tone
  • Ebony fretboard enhances playability
  • 22 XJ Frets for effortless bending
  • EMG JH set pickups offer unmatched clarity and power
  • Sperzel locking machine heads and Schaller Security Locks ensure tuning stability
  • Tonepros Locking TOM bridge and tailpiece for accurate intonation
  • Active Electronics for versatile tone shaping
  • Comes with a case for protection and portability
  • Crafted in Japan, ensuring meticulous quality and attention to detail

Product specs

Available since April 2014
Colour White
Body Mahogany
Top Maple
Neck Mahogany
Fretboard Ebony
Frets 22
Scale 628 mm
Pickups HH
Tremolo None
Incl. Case Yes
Incl. Gigbag No
Limited Run None
Model ESP Iron Cross
Shape LP-Style
Pickup System HH

FAQs

What type of music is the ESP Iron Cross best suited for?

The ESP Iron Cross is ideal for rock and metal genres, thanks to its mahogany body and HH pickup configuration, which deliver powerful, aggressive tones.

What is the neck profile of the ESP Iron Cross like?

The ESP Iron Cross features a mahogany neck with a comfortable, fast-playing profile, suitable for both rhythm and lead guitarists.

Does the ESP Iron Cross come with a tremolo system?

No, the ESP Iron Cross does not include a tremolo system, providing a solid, stable setup ideal for heavy riffs and sustained notes.

How many frets does the ESP Iron Cross have, and what is the scale length?

The ESP Iron Cross has 22 frets and a scale length of 628 mm, offering a traditional feel and playability.

Is the ESP Iron Cross suitable for beginners?

While the ESP Iron Cross is a high-quality instrument, its features and price point are better suited for intermediate to advanced players who can fully appreciate its capabilities.

What kind of pickups does the ESP Iron Cross use?

The ESP Iron Cross is equipped with HH pickups, providing a versatile range of tones from warm cleans to high-gain distortion.

Guitarist

Guitarist

ESP Iron Cross & KH-2 Ouija video review demo Guitarist Magazine

Video thumbnail for ESP Iron Cross & KH-2 Ouija video review demo Guitarist Magazine by Guitarist

ESP Iron Cross & KH-2 Ouija video review demo Guitarist Magazine

Guitarist

Guitarist

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional sound clarity and brilliance with EMG pickups

  • Precision craftsmanship with perfect lacquer and accurate inlays

  • Robust tonal volume, suitable for both rock and metal genres

  • Offers a unique, more present tone compared to other models

  • Custom wood selection enhances tonal quality and performance

  • Differentiated sound even without amplification

CONS

  • Significant investment for only a marginal improvement in sound over LTD model

  • Requires additional setup (e.g., restringing) upon purchase

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP Iron Cross (Duplicate).

Build quality

  • The fret inlays on this model are often stickers, which can be misleading at first glance.

    Source
  • The tailpiece sometimes lacks recessed string ball ends, differing from the original design.

    Source
  • It's noted that some guitars lack a truss rod, preventing neck adjustments and potentially limiting long-term usability.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The pickup selector near the knobs may be incorrectly placed and should actually be a knob.

    Source
  • The real model should have a third cavity on the back for a 9V battery, indicating active pickups.

    Source
  • The top pickup switch might be a dummy, inconsistent with authentic models.

    Source
  • Some variations of the guitar come with microphonic pickups, impacting sound quality.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners suggest replacing the passive pickups with EMG Het Set for improved performance.

    Source
  • Users frequently replace all electronics, pickups, and knobs, suggesting these components are subpar in replicas.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some owners report the need for neck adjustments and fretwork, including filing and capping, to enhance playability.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners compare the playability and quality of these replicas to genuine LTD models, noting significant differences in craftsmanship.

    Source

User experience

  • Several buyers have experienced customs issues, leading to confiscation of guitars, particularly in the UK.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Some users suggest purchasing the body only and sourcing electronics separately for a better overall instrument at around $500.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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M

ESP Iron Cross

The Snow White ESP LTD Iron Cross guitar. Played In Drop C Tuning by McAylan Himself.

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    michael
    michael

    Gear IQ 42245