ESP LTD Snakebyte SE James Hetfield Signature

4.5 (14)

$1,499.00

4.4 (25)

$1,499.00 New

$1,299.00 Used (Very Good)

5.0 (2)

$4,414.75 1 available Used

4.0 (1)

$1,499.00

5.0 (17)

$1,499.00

4.7 (21)

$1,555.00 $1,549.00 $6.00 · All time low

£1,380.00

Average Price: $1,923

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

In the Solid Body Electric Guitars category, ESP LTD Snakebyte SE James Hetfield Signature is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "ESP LTD Snakebyte SE James Hetfield Signature". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

^* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Edit description

Unleash the beast of heavy metal with the ESP LTD Snakebyte SE James Hetfield Signature guitar, a powerhouse designed in collaboration with Metallica's legendary frontman. This guitar is not just a tribute to Hetfield's iconic sound—it's a gateway to the thunderous tones that define modern metal. The EMG JH Het Set active pickups are at the heart of this monster, delivering a blend of active and passive sound qualities that are both punchy and dynamic. Crafted with a mahogany body and neck, the Snakebyte ensures a rich, resonant tone perfect for high-gain amplification.

The unique body shape, reminiscent of Hetfield's own preferred design, offers a balanced feel whether you're riffing on stage or shredding in the studio. The ebony fretboard, adorned with a custom Snakebyte inlay at the 12th fret, provides a sleek surface for blazing solos. High-performance components like the TonePros locking Tune-o-Matic bridge and LTD locking tuners ensure that your sound remains precise and your tuning rock-solid, no matter how aggressive your playing style.

This guitar is not just a tool—it's an extension of your musical prowess, offering you the highest level of control and expression possible. Whether you’re a seasoned metalhead or an aspiring rock guitarist, the Snakebyte SE is your ticket to commanding the stage with the same ferocity as Hetfield himself.

Key Features:

Signature design by James Hetfield of Metallica
Mahogany body and set-neck construction for rich tones
EMG JH Het Set active humbuckers for powerful sound output
Ebony fretboard with custom Snakebyte inlay
TonePros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece
LTD locking tuners for stable tuning
22 extra-jumbo frets for fast playability

Product specs

Number of Strings	6
Left-/Right-handed	Right-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 Material	Ebony
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

What kind of music is the ESP LTD Snakebyte SE James Hetfield Signature best suited for?: The ESP LTD Snakebyte SE James Hetfield Signature is ideal for metal and hard rock genres, thanks to its active EMG JH pickups which deliver a powerful and aggressive tone suited for heavy music.
How does the neck profile of the ESP LTD Snakebyte affect playability?: The Thin U neck profile of the ESP LTD Snakebyte offers a fast and comfortable playing experience, making it ideal for quick riffing and solos, which is perfect for metal and rock players.
What pickups are featured in the ESP LTD Snakebyte SE James Hetfield Signature?: The ESP LTD Snakebyte SE James Hetfield Signature is equipped with EMG JH-N and EMG JH-B active humbuckers, designed to deliver the high-output sound and clarity necessary for James Hetfield's signature tone.
Is the ESP LTD Snakebyte SE suitable for live performances?: Yes, the ESP LTD Snakebyte SE is well-suited for live performances with its solid construction, reliable tuning stability from LTD locking tuners, and powerful EMG pickups that ensure consistent tone on stage.
Does the ESP LTD Snakebyte SE come with a case?: Yes, the ESP LTD Snakebyte SE James Hetfield Signature comes with a hardshell case, providing protection and ease of transport for the guitar.

Videos

Add video

Oli Royer

ESP LTD James Hetfield Snakebyte - What's In A Name?

Oli Royer

ESP LTD James Hetfield Signature Snakebyte Black Satin Elektro Gitar Tanıtımı

Cangöz Müzik

Reviews

Add review

PROS

Light and well-balanced, great for extended playing sessions
JH pickups provide a warm, powerful sound ideal for metal
Satin neck and thin U shape facilitate fast, comfortable playing
Locking tuners offer reliable tuning stability
Distinctive and aggressive design, appealing for metal enthusiasts
High-quality construction and flawless finish
Resonant body with hollowed sections enhances sound quality
Includes a hard case with useful storage compartment
Versatile sound suitable for Metallica and other metal genres

CONS

Battery box with velcro strap can be inconvenient
Lacks a tone knob; only volume controls are available
Some users find the paint finish sticky without treatment
Smaller pots similar to lower-end models may not appeal to all

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP LTD Snakebyte SE James Hetfield Signature.

Build quality

0 0

The satin finish on the black version tends to wear off over time despite regular cleaning, unlike the Snow White version which doesn't have this issue.
Source

Features and functionality

0 0

The guitar uses the Het Set pickups, which are known for their shiny covers with visible screws, differing from the typical flat matte EMG pickup covers.
Source
0 0

The JH signature pickups in the Snakebyte are described as punchy with a higher output on the neck pickup than the 60, making standard tuning sound fuller compared to the 81.
Source
0 0

The Snakebyte's clean tone is notably impressive for a guitar with active pickups, differentiating it from other active pickup guitars which often lack in clean sound quality.
Source

User experience

0 0

Owners note that while the guitar is heavy, it remains comfortable to play, and the neck doesn't cause hand fatigue.
Source
0 0

Owners report that the Snakebyte's body style may not accommodate lead playing high up the neck as comfortably as some other models, such as the E-II.
Source
0 0

Owners highlight that the Snakebyte's case is exceptionally large and heavy, presenting challenges for transport in smaller vehicles.
Source

Comparisons

0 0

Compared to the JS Series Ibanez, the Snakebyte offers less tonal variety but excels in delivering a raw, heavy sound.
Source
0 0

The Snakebyte, with its strap button placement on the back, eliminates neck dive, unlike some EX models which may experience it.
Source
0 0

Some users prefer the feel and build quality of the E-II series, citing it as marginally better in every aspect compared to the LTD Snakebyte.
Source
0 0

The Snakebyte is favored over the Gibson Explorer for its shape and feel, with one owner expressing preference for its design.
Source
0 0

The Snakebyte is likened to a PRS S2 Custom 24 in quality, despite differing in design, suggesting high build standards comparable to more expensive models.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

The Snakebyte is praised for achieving a sound very close to James Hetfield, especially when paired with specific setups like the Axe FX3.
Source
0 0

The Snakebyte's Het Set EMGs excel in high-gain settings, sounding notably accurate with setups like a Marshall half-stack or Zakk Wylde tone setup.
Source
0 0

Despite being designed for heavy riffing, the Snakebyte is appreciated for its clean tone versatility, making it suitable for various musical styles beyond metal.
Source

Setup and maintenance

0 0

Regularly wiping down the satin finish can help slow down the wear, especially if you tend to rest your fingers on the body where a pick guard would normally be.
Source

Critic Reviews

ESP LTD SnakeByte review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The ESP LTD Snakebyte SE James Hetfield Signature is a powerhouse for metal enthusiasts, offering a robust build, competitive price, and excellent playability with its crushing yet crisp metal tones. The guitar's blend of mahogany body and EMG pickups delivers both the oomph for rhythm and the clarity for leads. While it excels in producing Hetfield's signature sound, the lack of choice in pickups may limit versatility. Nevertheless, for those seeking a sleek, modern metal machine at a reasonable price, the Snakebyte hits the mark.

positive

Full Review

Add review

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

More ESP Solid Body Electric Guitars

ESP LTD EC-1000 Deluxe Solid Body Electric Guitars

$257.58 - $1,145.00

8 available stores

5.0 (9)

Who’s using this:

16 artists using

ESP Eclipse II Solid Body Electric Guitars

$2,348.90 - $2,899.00

6 available stores

5.0 (16)

Who’s using this:

27 artists using

ESP LTD EC-256 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$399.00 - $599.00

8 available stores

4.5 (38)

Who’s using this:

ESP E-II Viper Electric Guitar Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,898.70 - $2,399.00

5 available stores

4.5 (7)

Who’s using this:

11 artists using

ESP LTD James Hetfield Snakebyte Electric Guitar Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,380.00 - $1,499.00

8 available stores

5.0 (9)

Who’s using this:

ESP Horizon-III Solid Body Electric Guitars

$2,349.00 - $5,500.00

7 available stores

5.0 (6)

Who’s using this:

9 artists using

ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature White Zombie Electric Guitar Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,597.79 - $1,799.00

8 available stores

5.0 (12)

Who’s using this:

ESP E-II ECLIPSE DB Solid Body Electric Guitars

$2,275.00 - $2,699.00

7 available stores

5.0 (5)

Who’s using this:

10 artists using

ESP LTD James Hetfield Signature "Iron Cross" Electric Guitar Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,427.00 - $1,599.00

8 available stores

4.5 (17)

Who’s using this:

ESP LTD KH-602 Kirk Hammett Signature Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,249.00 - $1,422.00

8 available stores

5.0 (6)

Who’s using this:

ESP Snakebyte Electric Guitar Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,380.00 - $4,000.00

8 available stores

5.0 (3)

Who’s using this:

5 artists using

ESP E-II M-I Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,889.00 - $2,185.00

7 available stores

5.0 (4)

Who’s using this:

12 artists using

ESP LTD GH-600 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,059.00 - $1,790.00

8 available stores

5.0 (3)

Who’s using this:

ESP Eclipse-II Solid Body Electric Guitars

$2,599.00 - $2,799.00

5 available stores

5.0 (4)

Who’s using this:

ESP E-II Horizon FR Solid Body Electric Guitars

$2,475.00 - $2,799.00

6 available stores

5.0 (2)

Who’s using this:

9 artists using

ESP Guitars, LTD TE-200 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$499.00 - $511.00

5 available stores

5.0 (2)

Who’s using this:

ESP EC-1000 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$257.58 - $1,145.00

8 available stores

5.0 (2)

Who’s using this:

ESP E-II Eclipse Solid Body Electric Guitars

$2,699.00 - $2,799.00

3 available stores

5.0 (3)

Who’s using this:

13 artists using

ESP James Hetfield Signature Snakebyte Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,499.00 - $6,149.00

5 available stores

5.0 (3)

Who’s using this:

ESP E-II Eclipse Evertune Solid Body Electric Guitars

$2,564.96 - $2,799.00

5 available stores

5.0 (4)

Who’s using this:

7 artists using

ESP E-II M-II Solid Body Electric Guitars

$2,599.00 - $3,299.00

6 available stores

5.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

7 artists using

ESP E-II Eclipse BB Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,565.00 - $2,759.00

6 available stores

5.0 (2)

Who’s using this:

ESP LTD Vulture James Hetfield Signature Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,308.57 - $1,599.00

8 available stores

5.0 (4)

Who’s using this:

ESP LTD M-1000 SW Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,049.00 - $1,650.00

3 available stores

5.0 (2)

Who’s using this:

8 artists using

ESP James Hetfield Signature Vulture Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,599.00 - $6,149.00

5 available stores

5.0 (5)

Who’s using this:

ESP James Hetfield Signature "Iron Cross" Electric Guitar Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,427.00 - $6,622.03

8 available stores

4.5 (3)

Who’s using this:

ESP LTD MH-1007 EVERTUNE Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,075.00 - $1,529.00

6 available stores

4.5 (2)

Who’s using this:

8 artists using

ESP KH Purple Sparkle Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,355.00 - $5,621.48

8 available stores

5.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

ESP LTD M-1000 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,399.00 - $1,777.00

4 available stores

5.0 (5)

Who’s using this:

ESP E-II Horizon III Solid Body Electric Guitars

$2,349.00 - $3,161.20

7 available stores

5.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

ESP E-II Horizon FR-7 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$2,299.00 - $2,699.99

6 available stores

4.5 (2)

Who’s using this:

8 artists using

ESP E-II Eclipse Electric Guitar Solid Body Electric Guitars

$2,599.00

1 available store

5.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

ESP M-II Solid Body Electric Guitars

$2,169.00 - $3,998.40

2 available stores

5.0 (2)

Who’s using this:

ESP E-II Eclipse FM STBLK Solid Body Electric Guitars

$2,599.00

1 available store

5.0 (2)

Who’s using this:

ESP Horizon NT-7B Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,947.27 - $2,899.00

6 available stores

5.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

ESP E-II Eclipse See-Thru Black Cherry Sunburst Electric Guitar Solid Body Electric Guitars

$2,599.00 - $3,099.00

3 available stores

5.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

ESP Guitars ESP LTD SN-1000HT Solid Body Electric Guitars

$699.00 - $1,444.00

7 available stores

5.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-3 Spider Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,355.00 - $1,499.00

7 available stores

5.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

ESP LTD EC-10 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$169.95 - $241.00

3 available stores

4.0 (3)

Who’s using this:

ESP Gary Holt Signature Electric Guitar Solid Body Electric Guitars

$644.00 - $7,699.00

4 available stores

5.0 (4)

Who’s using this: