Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (6)
$1,199.00
Guitar Center
4.0 (2)
$799.95
Amazon
4.3 (10)
$1,199.00 New
$1,045.00 Used (Very Good)
Reverb
5.0 (6)
$1,199.00 New
$750.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (2)
$1,199.00
zZounds
5.0 (2)
$799.95
Thomann
4.6 (19)
$1,048.00
Gear4Music
£1,160.00

Average Price: $1,024

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "LTD Arrow Black Metal". 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

If you're searching for a guitar that perfectly balances sonic ferocity with sleek, sinister aesthetics, the ESP LTD Arrow Black Metal is your weapon of choice. With its aggressive offset-V body shape, this guitar is designed to cut through any stage presence with a menacing all-black finish. The single active EMG 81 humbucker delivers that iconic metal crunch, known for its scorching-hot tone, providing a fierce sound that metal legends swear by. The streamlined setup of a single volume knob and an EMG TKO kill switch ensures that you stay in control without any unnecessary fuss.

Crafted with a comfortable Thin U-shaped neck and a fast-playing Macassar ebony fingerboard, the LTD Arrow Black Metal offers a smooth playing experience, even when you're shredding the most intense solos. The absence of fingerboard inlays and the subtle glow-in-the-dark side markers add an air of mystery and functionality to your performance. The inclusion of a Floyd Rose tremolo invites you to experiment with dive-bombs and warbles without compromising tuning stability.

Whether you're a seasoned stage performer or a home studio enthusiast, the LTD Arrow Black Metal is built to inspire and endure. Its uncompromising build quality and eye-catching design make it a standout choice for any metal guitarist looking to make a bold statement.

Key Features:

  • Resonant mahogany body with aggressive offset-V shape
  • Single active EMG 81 humbucker for powerful, cutting tones
  • Streamlined controls: single volume knob and EMG TKO kill switch
  • Thin U-shaped neck with Macassar ebony fingerboard
  • Floyd Rose tremolo for advanced pitch modulation
  • Grover tuners for reliable tuning stability
  • Glow-in-the-dark side markers for visibility on dark stages
  • All-black hardware and inlay-less fingerboard for a striking appearance

Product specs

Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Solidbody
Body Shape LTD Arrow
Body Material Mahogany
Body Finish Satin
Neck Material 3-piece Maple
Neck Shape Thin U
Neck Joint Neck-through
Radius 13.7"
Number of Frets 24, Extra Jumbo
Scale Length 25.5"
Nut Width 1.653"
Nut Material Locking
Bridge/Tailpiece Floyd Rose 1000 Tremolo
Tuners Grover
Bridge Pickup EMG 81 with Black Logo Humbucker
Controls 1 x master volume
Switching 1 x EMG TKO Kill Swtich
Strings D'Addario XL120, .009-.042
Case/Gig Bag Sold Separately

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the EMG 81 pickup on the LTD Arrow Black Metal?

The EMG 81 pickup on the LTD Arrow Black Metal is known for its high output and clarity, delivering aggressive tones ideal for metal and hard rock. It provides a tight, focused sound with excellent sustain, making it perfect for heavy riffing and lead work.

Is the LTD Arrow Black Metal suitable for advanced guitar players?

Yes, the LTD Arrow Black Metal is well-suited for advanced players, featuring a neck-through construction for enhanced sustain and playability, a Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo for dive-bombing, and a thin U-shaped neck for fast playing. Its high-quality components make it a great choice for seasoned musicians.

How does the Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo on the LTD Arrow Black Metal affect tuning stability?

The Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo on the LTD Arrow Black Metal provides excellent tuning stability, even during aggressive playing and dive-bombing. The locking nut and fine tuners ensure that the guitar remains in tune while allowing for expressive tremolo use.

What is the neck profile like on the LTD Arrow Black Metal?

The LTD Arrow Black Metal features a thin U-shaped neck profile, which is designed for fast and comfortable playability. This shape is ideal for players who prefer a slim neck for quick movements across the fretboard.

Does the LTD Arrow Black Metal come with a case or gig bag?

No, the LTD Arrow Black Metal does not come with a case or gig bag. These must be purchased separately to ensure the guitar is protected during transport and storage.

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars: LTD Arrow Black Metal Demo by Eli Santana

Video thumbnail for ESP Guitars: LTD Arrow Black Metal Demo by Eli Santana by ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars: LTD Arrow Black Metal Demo by Eli Santana

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars USA

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD ARROW BLACK METAL TONE DEMO by krisfk 1990

ESP LTD ARROW BLACK METAL TONE DEMO

krisfk 1990

krisfk 1990

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD Arrow Black Metal 2020 Satin Black Neck Through EMG 81 Floyd Rose guitar close up video by Oxford Guitars

ESP LTD Arrow Black Metal 2020 Satin Black Neck Through EMG 81 Floyd Rose guitar close up video

Oxford Guitars

Oxford Guitars

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD ARROW BLACK METAL Review and Demo by I gra gitara! - Dariusz Piątkowski

ESP LTD ARROW BLACK METAL Review and Demo

I gra gitara! - Dariusz Piątkowski

I gra gitara! - Dariusz Piątkowski

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD ARROW BLACK METAL. Problem with buying used guitars. Guitar gets a happy ending & a new home by Larryjo Guitars

ESP LTD ARROW BLACK METAL. Problem with buying used guitars. Guitar gets a happy ending & a new home

Larryjo Guitars

Larryjo Guitars

Reviews

PROS

  • Perfectly balanced radius between classic and modern metal feel

  • Comes almost in tune right out of the box

  • Impressive sustain and smooth dive-bombs with the Floyd Rose

  • Killer fretwork and glow-in-the-dark markers for easy playability

  • Unique beveled body for comfortable arm positioning

  • Simplicity in design, yet versatile and super light

  • Single EMG 81 pickup delivers a powerful, clear metal tone

  • Fast, smooth-playing neck with a satin finish

  • Easy setup for alternate tunings like Drop C

  • Handy kill switch for creative sound effects

CONS

  • TKO switch lacks expected responsiveness

  • Volume knob placement may interfere with strumming

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about LTD Arrow Black Metal.

Comparisons

  • The LTD Arrow Black Metal's neck is slightly thicker than that of Ibanez guitars, providing a different feel without being as bulky as a Les Paul neck.

    Source
  • Satin finish offers a more comfortable feel compared to the glossy finish of the Arrow 200, potentially influencing playability preferences.

    Source
  • The Arrow 1000 NT offers a recessed TOM bridge, whereas the Black Metal version features a surface-mounted bridge, impacting player preference for setup and string action.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that V-shaped guitars like the LTD Arrow can be uncomfortable sitting down due to the lower wing, suggesting a strap for better balance.

    Source
  • Owners report that the paint on the Black Metal version easily attracts fingerprints and grease, eventually buffing to a gloss, which may affect the matte finish preference.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Arrow series includes a cutaway designed for better leg comfort, but standing positions may still require adjustment for optimum playability.

    Source
  • The Arrow Black Metal has a satin finish, which users find more comfortable but prone to patina marks over time.

    Source
  • The Arrow Black Metal is noted for its minimal aesthetics, appealing to players who prioritize a streamlined, no-frills design.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The EMG 81 pickup on the LTD Arrow Black Metal delivers a consistent tone across various guitars, suitable for those seeking a classic heavy sound.

    Source
  • The Arrow Black Metal is recommended for metal rhythm players due to its single EMG 81 pickup and simplified controls, offering straightforward functionality.

    Source
  • The Black Metal's single EMG 81 pickup suits players who favor straightforward metal tones and do not require clean sounds or tonal variation from neck pickups.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Arrow Black Metal features stainless steel frets and an ebony fingerboard, which are typically found in higher-end models like the 1000 Series.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • For those frequently changing tunings, a fixed bridge is recommended over a Floyd Rose due to the floating bridge's need for constant re-balancing.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Arrow Black Metal is approximately $200 less than the 1000 NT, making it a cost-effective choice for players focused solely on metal without needing neck pickup versatility.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Max Cavalera uses LTD Arrow Black Metal

Max Cavalera

Singer, Guitarist

Sepultura

...
Verified via Photo

Lately, Max has been using several different ESP LTD arrows, including a black metal series arrow with a custom paint job.

See how Micke Svanberg uses LTD Arrow Black Metal

Micke Svanberg

Guitarist, Composer

Dark Funeral

...
Verified via YouTube

First shown off earlier in 2020 and used in a rehearsal video of "The End of Human Race."

See how Sgah'gahsowáh uses LTD Arrow Black Metal

Sgah'gahsowáh

Singer

Blackbraid

...
Verified via YouTube
Color/Finish: Black Satin Year: 2025

In the official music video for "The Dying Breath of a Sacred Stag" by Blackbraid, at the 1:44 mark, Sgah'gahsowáh is clearly seen using an LTD Arrow Black Metal guitar. This video was uploaded by Black Metal Promotion on YouTube.

See how Sam Reynolds uses LTD Arrow Black Metal

Sam Reynolds

Guitarist

Dying Wish

...
Verified via Photo

Sam Reynolds is confirmed to use the LTD Arrow Black Metal guitar, as evidenced by a post on Instagram by user deadsoulborn. In the image, Sam is seen playing this specific model live with the band Dying Wish.

Album Usage

The LTD Arrow Black Metal has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

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

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