Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
$1,799.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (3)
$1,799.00
Amazon
$1,350.00
Reverb
4.0 (2)
$1,349.00 New
$950.00 Used
Musician's Friend
3.0 (5)
$1,799.00
zZounds
$1,499.00
Thomann
$1,222.00

Average Price: $1,471

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

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

What is the neck profile of the ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature?

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.

Are the pickups on the ESP LTD KH-V suitable for heavy metal music?

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.

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

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.

What type of wood is used for the body of the ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature?

The body of the ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature is made from Korina wood, known for its balanced tone and lightweight properties.

Does the ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature come with a case?

Yes, the ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature includes a hardshell case for protection and easy transport.

How many frets does the ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature have?

The ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature features 24 extra jumbo frets, allowing for extended range and versatility in playing.

SpectreSoundStudios

SpectreSoundStudios

LTD CRUSHES the Gibson Mustaine V: Kirk Hammett V!!

Video thumbnail for LTD CRUSHES the Gibson Mustaine V:  Kirk Hammett V!! by SpectreSoundStudios

LTD CRUSHES the Gibson Mustaine V: Kirk Hammett V!!

SpectreSoundStudios

SpectreSoundStudios

Video thumbnail for LTD Kirk Hammett KH-V - FIRST LOOK! by McFaddenSales

LTD Kirk Hammett KH-V - FIRST LOOK!

McFaddenSales

McFaddenSales

Video thumbnail for A RETRO-INSPIRED FLYING V HYBRID? | ESP LTD Kirk Hammett V Guitar Review KH-V by Guitar Cinema

A RETRO-INSPIRED FLYING V HYBRID? | ESP LTD Kirk Hammett V Guitar Review KH-V

Guitar Cinema

Guitar Cinema

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature by guitar Magazin

ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature

guitar Magazin

guitar Magazin

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD Kirk Hammett V Sound test by Karz Khanna

ESP LTD Kirk Hammett V Sound test

Karz Khanna

Karz Khanna

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

  • Floyd Rose bridges can be challenging for beginners; it's advisable to watch tutorials on tuning and maintenance before purchasing.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some owners have upgraded the pickups but retained the stock ones for future projects, indicating the stock pickups are decent.

    Source

User experience

  • An owner prefers the KH-V for its bolt-on neck, which they favor over more expensive models.

    Source
  • Some players note that the bolt-on neck of the $700 model limits fretboard access compared to neck-through options.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The KH-V is seen as a good alternative to more expensive models, with some opting to save by not paying for the signature model.

    Source
  • The $700 model is considered the best value guitar at that price point, lacking only the EMG pickups found in more expensive versions.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some users suggest considering a PRS for better value over an LTD/ESP, despite not being a Kirk Hammett model.

    Source
  • The cheapest version is a bolt-on neck, whereas the other two models are neck-through, impacting access and sustain.

    Source

Other

  • It's mentioned that Kirk Hammett's endorsement with ESP continues, with new models expected, despite his association with Gibson.

    Source

Build quality

  • The cheapest model features an unfinished neck, similar to the KH-2, while the KH-602 comes with a finished neck.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The $700 model uses active pickups, unlike the EMG pickups found in higher-end versions, which affects tonal output.

    Source

Critic Reviews

ESP LTD KH-V Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

Kirk Hammett's LTD KH-V is a striking V-shaped guitar that marries beauty with performance, showcasing excellent craftsmanship and an articulate sound from its active pickups. While it comes with a hefty price tag of $1,799, the premium features—including locking tuners and a sleek design—justify the investment. However, the absence of a vibrato might deter some players. Overall, it’s a solid choice for both fans of the Metallica guitarist and those seeking a versatile, high-quality instrument.

positive

ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett review | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

The ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature guitar is a striking metal machine, boasting remarkable sustain and great looks, paired with excellent EMG Bone Breaker pickups that deliver crushing tones. However, it falls short with lackluster clean sounds, making it less versatile compared to some of Kirk's previous models. While its design and playability are commendable, the limited clean tone options may leave some players wanting more. Overall, it's a solid choice for metal enthusiasts but might not satisfy those seeking tonal diversity.

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kirk Hammett uses ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature

Kirk Hammett

Guitarist

Metallica

...
Verified via Photo

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.

See how Glenn Fricker uses ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature

Glenn Fricker

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

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.

See how Hunter Agufish uses ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature

Hunter Agufish

Guitarist, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

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

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

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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