Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $6,155

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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Standard

High-end

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Description

When it comes to crafting an electric guitar for a legendary metal guitarist, the ESP KH-4 Kirk Hammett Signature delivers an experience that meets the high standards of Metallica's lead guitarist. This iconic instrument is built to handle the aggressive playing styles that defined a genre, yet offers the versatility and precision required for more intricate melodies. Its solid body construction and signature EMG Bone Breaker pickups provide a crisp, powerful sound that cuts through any mix, whether in a studio setting or live on stage.

The KH-4 features a sleek neck for fast playability, with an ebony fingerboard that accommodates quick fretboard navigation, perfect for executing blistering solos. The locking tremolo system ensures that tuning stability is maintained, even during the most intense performances. The guitar's aesthetic design is subtly fierce, reflecting Hammett's own style while providing comfort and balance for prolonged play.

For musicians seeking an instrument that evokes the spirit of a metal legend, the KH-4 is a formidable tool that merges craftsmanship with rock-solid performance. A must-have for any serious guitarist aiming to channel the energy and precision of Kirk Hammett.

Key Features:

  • Signature EMG Bone Breaker pickups for a powerful, clear tone
  • Solid body construction for durability and resonant sound
  • Fast-playing ebony fingerboard
  • Locking tremolo system for enhanced tuning stability
  • Sleek neck profile designed for comfort and speed

Product specs

Brand ESP
Model KH-4 Kirk Hammett Signature
Finish Black
Year 1998 - 1999
Made In Japan
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Locking Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the ESP KH-4 Kirk Hammett Signature pickups for metal music?

The ESP KH-4 features an HH pickup configuration with EMG 81 and EMG 60 active pickups, known for delivering high-output, aggressive tones ideal for metal music, offering tight low-end, crisp mids, and searing highs.

Is the ESP KH-4 Kirk Hammett Signature suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the ESP KH-4 is designed for advanced players, featuring a fast-playing neck, 24 frets, and a locking tremolo bridge, making it ideal for complex solos and heavy metal riffs.

What is the neck profile like on the ESP KH-4 Kirk Hammett Signature?

The ESP KH-4 features a thin U-shaped neck profile, providing a comfortable and fast playing experience, perfect for shredding and intricate lead work.

Does the ESP KH-4 Kirk Hammett Signature guitar come with a locking tremolo system?

Yes, the ESP KH-4 includes a locking tremolo bridge, allowing for stable tuning and expressive dive-bombs and vibratos.

What is the main construction style of the ESP KH-4 Kirk Hammett Signature?

The ESP KH-4 features a bolt-on neck construction, offering a bright tone and easy neck replacement or adjustment.

Dennis Kayzer

Dennis Kayzer

ESP Custom Shop KH-4 - Axe FX2 - Kirk Hammet Signature Guitar

Video thumbnail for ESP Custom Shop KH-4 - Axe FX2 - Kirk Hammet Signature Guitar by Dennis Kayzer

ESP Custom Shop KH-4 - Axe FX2 - Kirk Hammet Signature Guitar

Dennis Kayzer

Dennis Kayzer

Video thumbnail for Easy Hammett solo on my ESP KH-4 #MAYTALLICA by Kaosware

Easy Hammett solo on my ESP KH-4 #MAYTALLICA

Kaosware

Kaosware

Video thumbnail for www.GuitarsCollector.com - [1998] ESP Custom KH-4 Kirk Hammett Signature by Guitars Collector

www.GuitarsCollector.com - [1998] ESP Custom KH-4 Kirk Hammett Signature

Guitars Collector

Guitars Collector

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP KH-4 Kirk Hammett Signature.

Build quality

  • The cheapest model uses a bolt-on neck, affecting fretboard access compared to the neck-through design of the higher-end models.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The $700 model features an unfinished neck, similar to Kirk Hammett's preference on the KH-2.

    Source
  • The $700 model lacks EMG pickups, unlike the $1400 version which includes them for a more authentic Hammett sound.

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  • The KH-2 features a dual EMG 81 setup, popular for achieving Kirk's classic sound from the late '80s to 2011.

    Source
  • Later models incorporate the EMG Bonebreaker set, customized to Kirk's preferences and providing a unique tonal character.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The $700 model uses a Floyd Rose Special bridge, while the $1400 model uses a Floyd 1000, and the $5800 model features the Original Floyd Rose.

    Source
  • The KH-602 models are closer in quality to ESP's Custom Shop versions compared to cheaper models like the KH-202.

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  • The KH-603/KH-3 Spider mirrors the KH-3 Eclipse with a Korean build, maintaining a similar style with a spider graphic.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note that the $700 model offers great value, being considered the best in its price range despite not having premium pickups.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Floyd Rose systems offer superior tuning stability but demand complex setup for tuning changes and string gauge adjustments.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Kirk Hammett models are designed for lead playing, contrasting with Hetfield’s rhythm-focused guitars.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Kirk Hammett uses ESP KH-4 Kirk Hammett Signature

Kirk Hammett

Guitarist

Metallica

...
Verified via Photo

he is holding the guitar in this image, but he rarely used this model live

See how Richard Zven Kruspe uses ESP KH-4 Kirk Hammett Signature

Richard Zven Kruspe

Guitarist

Rammstein

...
Verified via Photo

Photo of Richard playing ESP KH-4 Signature

Genre Usage

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