James Hetfield’s ESP LTD Iron Cross

This is another James Hetfield signature model by ESP, heavily inspired by James’ 1973 Gibson Les Paul which he used extensively during St.Anger era. As the story goes, a while back James wanted to make that Les Paul into a signature model, but Gibson for some reason was not up for it. So eventually ESP stepped in, and this was the result.

Specs, Usage

The guitar was based on the Eclipse model, which is ESP’s version of a Les Paul. It features a set-neck construction with a 24.75″ scale length and a mahogany body with a maple. The neck is a one-piece mahogany with an ebony fingerboard and 22 extra-jumbo frets. It comes equipped with Sperzel locking tuners, and a TonePros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece.

The initial production run of this guitar was limited to just 100 units, all finished in black and meticulously replicating the same details and wear patterns as James Hetfield’s original 1973 Gibson Les Paul, complete with an EMG 81/60 pickup set. These early models have since become highly coveted collectibles.

In 2011, ESP created a few white versions specifically for James, outfitted with black hardware, including the iconic iron cross. This design eventually evolved into a full production model, officially released by ESP in 2014, featuring a set of EMG JH “HET” pickups.

James used/uses this guitar extensively since 2008 during live gigs.