Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $1,422
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "ESP LTD Snakebyte LH". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Unleash your inner rock god with the ESP LTD Snakebyte LH, a left-handed electric guitar designed in collaboration with James Hetfield of Metallica. This iconic instrument is crafted for metal enthusiasts who demand both style and performance. The Snakebyte body shape not only makes a bold visual statement but also ensures outstanding balance and ergonomics, preventing neck dive whether you're performing on stage or practicing in your studio.
At the heart of the Snakebyte's formidable sound are the EMG JH Het Set active pickups, expertly engineered to deliver the potent, clear tones that define heavy metal. These pickups capture the aggressive punch of active humbuckers while preserving the nuance and dynamics of passive pickups, providing you with a versatile sonic palette. The mahogany body and neck contribute to the guitar's rich, warm tonal quality, complemented by the sleek Macassar ebony fretboard adorned with a custom Snakebyte inlay at the 12th fret.
The LTD locking tuners and TonePros locking Tune-o-matic bridge and tailpiece ensure that the Snakebyte offers rock-solid tuning stability and intonation. With a thin U-shaped neck profile and 22 extra-jumbo frets, this guitar is built for speed and comfort, allowing you to shred with ease. Whether you're a seasoned metalhead or an aspiring guitarist, the ESP LTD Snakebyte LH promises to elevate your playing experience to electrifying new heights.
Key Features:
- Left-handed James Hetfield signature model
- Mahogany body and neck with set-in construction
- Macassar ebony fretboard with 22 extra-jumbo frets
- EMG JH Het Set active humbuckers
- LTD locking tuners and TonePros locking Tune-o-Matic bridge
- Thin U neck profile for fast playability
- Includes a durable case for protection
Product specs
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Left-handed |
| Body Type | Solidbody |
| Body Shape | Snakebyte |
| Body Material | Mahogany |
| Body Finish | Polyurethane Satin |
| Neck Material | 3-piece Mahogany |
| Neck Shape | Thin U |
| Neck Joint | Set Neck |
| Radius | 13.7" |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Snakebyte with Dots |
| Number of Frets | 22, XJ |
| Scale Length | 24.75" |
| Nut Width | 1.654" |
| Nut Material | Molded Plastic |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | Tonepros locking TOM |
| Tuners | LTD locking |
| Neck Pickup | EMG JH-N Active Humbucker |
| Bridge Pickup | EMG JH-B Active Humbucker |
| Controls | 2 x volume |
| Switching | 3-way toggle pickup switch |
| Strings | D'Addario XL110, .010-.046 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Hardshell case |
FAQs
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What kind of neck profile does the ESP LTD Snakebyte LH have?
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The ESP LTD Snakebyte LH features a Thin U neck profile, providing a comfortable and fast playing experience, ideal for guitarists who prefer a slimmer neck.
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Are the pickups on the ESP LTD Snakebyte LH suitable for heavy metal music?
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Yes, the ESP LTD Snakebyte LH is equipped with EMG JH-N and JH-B active humbuckers, designed for powerful, high-gain tones perfect for heavy metal and hard rock genres.
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What is the scale length of the ESP LTD Snakebyte LH?
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The ESP LTD Snakebyte LH has a 24.75-inch scale length, which offers a familiar feel for players accustomed to traditional electric guitar scales and enhances playability.
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Is the ESP LTD Snakebyte LH suitable for left-handed players?
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Yes, the ESP LTD Snakebyte LH is specifically designed for left-handed guitarists, ensuring comfortable playability and access to all features.
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Does the ESP LTD Snakebyte LH come with a case?
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Yes, the ESP LTD Snakebyte LH comes with a hardshell case, providing protection and convenience for transport and storage.
Videos
Guitar World
ESP LTD James Hetfield Snakebyte - Sounds
ESP LTD James Hetfield Snakebyte - Sounds
Guitar World
ESP Ltd James Hetfield Snakebyte Guitar review
Matt The Riff Master
ESP LTD James Hetfield Snakebyte - What's In A Name?
Oli Royer
ESP LTD Snakebyte - Test/Review
megahurtz30
Reviews
PROS
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Lightweight design offers comfort for both standing and sitting players
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Exceptional sound clarity with EMG Het Set pickups, ideal for metal genres
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High-quality workmanship, particularly in the neck and fretboard
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Locking tuners simplify and speed up string changes
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Neck profile and jumbo frets cater to larger hands comfortably
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Versatile sound, performing well in both clean and distorted settings
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Comfortable body shape due to well-designed tapering
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Strong metal tones, reminiscent of Metallica's iconic sound
CONS
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Plastic nut feels out of place on a premium guitar
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Right-handed audio taper pots used on left-handed model cause functionality issues
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Price point considered high compared to perceived value by some users
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Lack of artist certification is disappointing for fans
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP LTD Snakebyte LH.
Features and functionality
User experience
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The Snakebyte is reported to weigh around 7 pounds, making it a lightweight option with no neck dive, ideal for extended play sessions.
Source -
Left-handed players find the LTD Snakebyte, especially in satin black, feels high-quality and closely mirrors the ESP in terms of playability and specs.
Source
Use cases and applications
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Snakebyte owners praise the Het Set EMGs for delivering tones that are ideal for high-gain styles and specific songs like "Miracle Man."
Source -
The ESP Snakebyte's construction is so reliable that professional musicians specifically request them for recording sessions, indicating top-tier performance.
Source
Comparisons
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E-II models are noted for higher build quality, better components, and notably heavier wood compared to LTD models, though both are considered excellent instruments.
Source -
Some users note the LTD Snakebyte provides a similar quality feel to more traditional Explorer shapes, making it a desirable alternative for left-handers.
Source
Build quality
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ESP Snakebytes are praised for meticulous Japanese craftsmanship, with fewer hands involved in production, ensuring higher quality control and attention to detail.
Source
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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