Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.1 (4)
$999.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (2)
$1,299.00
Reverb
5.0 (4)
$939.00 New
$800.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (2)
$799.00
zZounds
5.0 (4)
$999.00
Thomann
$1,199.00

Average Price: $1,005

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Kramer Dave Mustaine Vanguard Rust In Peace". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Kramer Dave Mustaine Vanguard Rust In Peace is a formidable weapon for any aspiring metal guitarist, crafted to deliver the sonic power and precision demanded by Megadeth’s legendary frontman. This asymmetrical "V"-shaped mahogany body not only makes a bold statement on stage but also ensures a perfect balance and ergonomic comfort for long practice sessions or high-energy performances. Its 25.5" scale length mahogany neck, featuring a custom medium "C" profile, is paired with an ebony fingerboard that holds 24 jumbo frets, providing the perfect platform for intricate solos and complex riffs.

At the heart of this guitar are the Seymour Duncan Thrash Factor pickups, specially voiced to capture the essence of the Rust In Peace era's aggressive tones. These humbuckers produce tight lows, crisp mids, and searing highs that are quintessential for thrash metal enthusiasts. The Kramer Vanguard’s hardware is robust, featuring a LockTone Tune-o-Matic bridge and Grover Mini Rotomatic tuners, ensuring that your sound remains in perfect tune, even under the heaviest riffage.

Designed with both the studio and stage in mind, the Vanguard includes a custom Dave Mustaine hardshell case for secure transportation. This guitar is not just an instrument but an embodiment of thrash metal legacy, ready to inspire and empower you to create your own metal saga.

Key Features:

  • Asymmetrical "V"-shaped mahogany body
  • 25.5"-scale mahogany neck with medium C profile
  • Ebony fretboard with 24 jumbo frets
  • Signature Seymour Duncan Thrash Factor pickups
  • LockTone Tune-o-Matic bridge, string-through Flying V plate
  • Grover Mini Rotomatic tuners
  • Includes custom hardshell case

Product specs

Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Solidbody
Body Shape Dave Mustaine Vanguard
Body Material Mahogany
Neck Material Mahogany
Neck Shape Medium C - Dave Mustaine Custom Profile
Neck Joint Set Neck
Fingerboard Inlay Dots
Number of Frets 24
Scale Length 25.5"
Nut Width 1.69"
Nut Material Graph Tech
Bridge/Tailpiece Epiphone LockTone Tune-O-Matic Bridge with Flying V String Plate
Tuners Grover Mini Rotomatic
Neck Pickup Seymour Duncan Dave Mustaine Signature Thrash Factor Humbucker
Bridge Pickup Seymour Duncan Dave Mustaine Signature Thrash Factor Humbucker
Controls 2 x volume, 1 x tone
Switching 3-way toggle pickup switch
Strings Gibson, .010-.046
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What kind of music is the Kramer Dave Mustaine Vanguard Rust In Peace best suited for?

The Kramer Dave Mustaine Vanguard Rust In Peace is ideal for heavy metal and hard rock, thanks to its Seymour Duncan Dave Mustaine Signature Thrash Factor Humbucker pickups, which deliver aggressive and powerful tones.

How does the neck profile of the Kramer Dave Mustaine Vanguard affect playability?

The medium C - Dave Mustaine Custom Profile neck offers a comfortable grip that accommodates both rhythm and lead playing, making it suitable for players who enjoy fast-paced metal riffs and solos.

What is the significance of the Seymour Duncan Dave Mustaine Signature Thrash Factor Humbuckers?

These pickups are designed to capture the signature high-gain sound of Dave Mustaine, providing clarity and punch that are perfect for metal and thrash genres.

Does the Kramer Dave Mustaine Vanguard Rust In Peace come with a case?

Yes, this guitar comes with a hardshell case, offering excellent protection for transport and storage.

Is the Kramer Dave Mustaine Vanguard Rust In Peace suitable for live performances?

Absolutely, with its solid mahogany body and reliable Grover Mini Rotomatic tuners, this guitar is built for stability and performance on stage.

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KRAMER Dave Mustaine Vanguard (Better than EPIPHONE?)

Video thumbnail for KRAMER Dave Mustaine Vanguard (Better than EPIPHONE?) by Play and Trade Guitars

KRAMER Dave Mustaine Vanguard (Better than EPIPHONE?)

Play and Trade Guitars

Play and Trade Guitars

Video thumbnail for Kramer Dave Mustaine Vanguard Rust in Peace Review by The Guitar Reliquary

Kramer Dave Mustaine Vanguard Rust in Peace Review

The Guitar Reliquary

The Guitar Reliquary

Reviews

PROS

  • Alien Tech Green finish is visually stunning and even better in person

  • Fast neck with low action provides excellent playability

  • Lightweight design with no noticeable neck dive

  • Trash Factor pickups offer powerful, touch-sensitive sound

  • Suitable for a wide range of music from Rock to Death Metal

  • Comes with a snug, well-built hard case

  • Frets are level with no sharp edges

  • Easy to achieve pinch harmonics

  • Comfortable to play both sitting and standing

CONS

  • Initial setup often requires adjustments for optimal playability

  • String alignment issues reported, may require nut replacement

  • Spots left on V plate after removing protective film

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Kramer Dave Mustaine Vanguard Rust In Peace.

Build quality

  • The Kramer Dave Mustaine Vanguard Rust In Peace lacks stainless steel frets, which some modern budget guitars already include.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The guitar includes mahogany construction with an ebony fretboard and thrash factor pickups, bundled with a hardshell case.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Kramer's aesthetic is closely reminiscent of Dave Mustaine's old Dean guitars more than his current Gibsons.

    Source
  • Some users feel the Kramer's inlay design lacks the flair expected from a metal guitar, preferring something more distinctive like a Vic logo.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Despite some quality features, the guitar is considered overpriced for being Chinese-built, with some comparing its price unfavorably to USA-made models.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Kramer Dave Mustaine Vanguard review – if shredding is your business... then business is good | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Kramer’s Dave Mustaine Vanguard offers a striking design and impressive playability, making it a solid choice for shredders. The guitar features a neck-through construction and quality Seymour Duncan humbuckers that deliver a menacing tone, perfect for heavy riffs. However, it’s slightly heavier than other models, which may deter some players. While it excels in aesthetics and sound, it lacks the versatility of Mustaine’s Epiphone Custom, leaving some room for improvement. Overall, the Vanguard is a compelling option for dedicated metal enthusiasts.

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Artist usage

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See how Dave Mustaine uses Kramer Dave Mustaine Vanguard Rust In Peace

Dave Mustaine

Guitarist, Singer

Metallica

...
Verified via Photo

Dave can be seen playing this guitar live.

See how Doug Weiand uses Kramer Dave Mustaine Vanguard Rust In Peace

Doug Weiand

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube
Color/Finish: Alien Tech Green

In the description of this YouTube video, it is confirmed that Doug Weiand is playing a Kramer Dave Mustaine Vanguard Rust In Peace.

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 Kramer Dave Mustaine Vanguard Rust In Peace, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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