Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $1,471
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
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High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature is a modern-day rendition of a metal classic, meticulously crafted to match the high standards of its namesake, Metallica's Kirk Hammett. This guitar is more than just a fan's dream; it's a versatile and dynamic instrument that stands on its own merits.
The KH-V's korina body is a nod to tradition, offering a resonant, mahogany-like tone and sustain, further amplified by its string-through body design. The set-through maple neck features ESP's 'Extra Thin-U' profile, facilitating lightning-fast solos and effortless access to the upper frets.
The true star of the show, however, is the EMG Bone Breakers - Hammett's signature pickups. These individually-voiced humbuckers, equipped with ceramic and alnico magnets, deliver a dynamic range of sounds, from clean, resonant notes to powerful, punchy riffs.
Unleash your inner rock star with the ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature, a guitar that embodies the suave yet robust spirit of modern metal.
Key Features:
- Signature “V” model of Metallica’s Kirk Hammett
- 24 extra-jumbo frets for low action and accurate, smooth bends
- Solid korina body for resonant, rich tone and sustain
- Extra Thin-U neck profile for unfettered fretboard access
- 2 active EMG Bone Breaker humbuckers with ceramic and alnico V magnets
- Custom-voiced preamp for dynamic cleans and punishing riffs
- Hardware includes a graphite nut, locking LTD tuners, and a locking TOM-style bridge
Product specs
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Type | Solidbody |
| Body Shape | KH-V |
| Body Material | Korina |
| Body Finish | Gloss |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Neck Shape | Extra Thin U |
| Neck Joint | Neck-through |
| Radius | 13.7" |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Waves |
| Number of Frets | 24, Extra Jumbo |
| Scale Length | 25.5" |
| Nut Width | 1.653" |
| Nut Material | Graphite |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | TonePros Locking Tune-O-Matic |
| Tuners | LTD Locking |
| Neck Pickup | EMG Bone Breaker Humbucker |
| Bridge Pickup | EMG Bone Breaker Humbucker |
| Controls | 1 x volume, 1 x tone |
| Switching | 3-way toggle pickup switch |
| Strings | D'Addario, .010-.046 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Hardshell Case |
FAQs
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What is the neck profile of the ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature?
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The ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature features an Extra Thin U neck profile, providing a fast and comfortable playing experience ideal for shredding and complex solos.
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Are the pickups on the ESP LTD KH-V suitable for heavy metal music?
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Yes, the ESP LTD KH-V is equipped with EMG Bone Breaker Humbuckers, designed to deliver high output and clarity, making them perfect for heavy metal and hard rock genres.
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Is the ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature suitable for advanced players?
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The ESP LTD KH-V is designed with advanced players in mind, offering features like a neck-through construction, locking tuners, and high-output pickups that cater to professional playing styles.
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What type of wood is used for the body of the ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature?
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The body of the ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature is made from Korina wood, known for its balanced tone and lightweight properties.
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Does the ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature come with a case?
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Yes, the ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature includes a hardshell case for protection and easy transport.
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How many frets does the ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature have?
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The ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature features 24 extra jumbo frets, allowing for extended range and versatility in playing.
Videos
SpectreSoundStudios
LTD CRUSHES the Gibson Mustaine V: Kirk Hammett V!!
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature.
Setup and maintenance
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Floyd Rose bridges can be challenging for beginners; it's advisable to watch tutorials on tuning and maintenance before purchasing.
Source
Mods and upgrades
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Some owners have upgraded the pickups but retained the stock ones for future projects, indicating the stock pickups are decent.
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User experience
Value and pricing
Comparisons
Other
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It's mentioned that Kirk Hammett's endorsement with ESP continues, with new models expected, despite his association with Gibson.
Source
Build quality
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The cheapest model features an unfinished neck, similar to the KH-2, while the KH-602 comes with a finished neck.
Source
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
Add artist
Kirk Hammett discusses his signature KH-V from ESP in this interview:
What was your first impression when you got that gold one?
KH: I actually got goosebumps! I loved how it seemed to be patterned after that classic gold top look. Cream, plastic parts, gold hardware with a classic gold finish… and when I saw it, was like the perfect hybrid of the reality and my vision. It’s such a beautiful guitar. I strapped it on and played it later that day; just jamming out with friends for four or five hours. It’s an amazing, amazing guitar.
Have you used any of them in the studio recently, and if you have … which one of the three?The gold, the red, or the black?
KH: I've been using the gold one a lot you know, for the more active pick-up driven songs and music that we've been working on. It's great, because it has a completely different sound to my usual ESP's. My monster graphics guitars are great, and I love them, and I know what to expect, but these guitars sound completely different. It’s a different sound altogether
So will we see any of these on the tour?
KH: Absolutely! I intend on playing all of them are on tour, everywhere! I can't wait.
Which one of the three new designs is your favorite?
KH: Well you know… they’re all pretty bad-ass! I like them all for different reasons. The gold one is very elegant looking to me, I appreciate the classy, classic look put on a very modern design. I like joining of two different worlds. I kind of have a soft spot for that one.
In a video by SpectreSoundStudios, Glenn Fricker discusses the ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature guitar. Although he expresses his dislike for the color options, he appreciates the guitar's performance.
In this video hunter shows off his guitar collection. One guitar he has is a ltd khv. He states that this was apart of a wide range of signatures kirk hammet released in 2023. It the only ltd signature of the year. Hunter states it is the most kirk hammet of the signatures. Hunter’s guitar is in a red sparkle finish. One of his viewers renamed the finish “demonic disco”. The guitar is fitted with emg bone breaker pickups
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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