he ESP LTD James Hetfield Signature Vulture delivers the commanding power, precision, and aggression that define the Metallica frontman’s sound. Designed in collaboration with Hetfield himself, this bold V-shaped instrument captures the raw authority and punch needed for high-gain riffing, palm-muted chugging, and searing leads. It’s a modern metal machine that pairs uncompromising tone with battle-ready reliability.

Featuring a mahogany body and set-neck construction, the Vulture offers incredible sustain and resonance, while its Thin U-shaped 3-piece mahogany neck and Macassar ebony fingerboard ensure fast, smooth playability across all 22 frets. The EMG JH “Het Set” active pickups deliver James’s signature tone — tight, percussive low end, articulate mids, and searing highs with remarkable dynamic response. Whether you’re driving rhythm sections or soaring over the mix with leads, the Vulture maintains clarity and punch even under extreme gain.

Built for players who demand power, precision, and performance, the Vulture’s TonePros locking bridge, LTD locking tuners, and satin-black hardware ensure rock-solid tuning stability and stage-ready durability. Designed for the serious metal guitarist, this is the weapon of choice for anyone looking to harness Hetfield’s legendary tone and feel, and it’s available right now at Haggerty’s Music.

Features / Specs

Highlights

Series: LTD Signature Series
Orientation: Right-Handed
Color: Black Satin

Body

Body Material: Mahogany
Body Finish: Black Satin
Body Shape: Vulture
Body Style: Solidbody

Neck

Headstock Type: LTD Vulture
Neck Material: 3-Piece Mahogany
Neck Shape: Thin U
Neck Finish: Satin
Neck Depth: 0.857" at 1st Fret, 0.975" at 12th Fret
Neck Construction: Set-Neck
Fingerboard Radius: 13.78" (350 mm)
Fingerboard Material: Macassar Ebony
Position Inlays: Dots with Custom Vulture Inlay
Side Dots: White
Number of Frets: 22
Truss Rod Style: Dual-Action Adjustable
Truss Rod Nut: 5/32" Hex
Nut Material: Molded Synthetic
Nut Width: 1.65" (42 mm)
Fret Size: Extra Jumbo
Scale Length: 24.75"

Hardware

Bridge: TonePros Locking Tune-O-Matic
Bridge Cover/Tail Piece: Stopbar Tailpiece
Bridge Mounting: Stud Mounted
Pickguard: None
Pickup Covers: Brushed Black Chrome
Control Knobs: Dome Knobs (Black Satin)
Switch Tip: Black
Hardware Finish: Black Satin
Tuning Machines: LTD Locking
String Trees: None
Strings: D’Addario XL110 (.010–.046)
Tremolo Arm: None
Neck Plate: None (Set-Neck Construction)
Strap Buttons: Standard
Output Jack: Side-Mount

Electronics

Pickup Configuration: HH
Bridge Pickup: EMG JH “Het Set” Humbucker
Neck Pickup: EMG JH “Het Set” Humbucker
Controls: Neck + Bridge Volume Controls
Switching: 3-Way Toggle Pickup Selector
Auxiliary Switching: None

Miscellaneous

Accessories: ESP Kit
Case/Gig Bag: Vulture Form Fit Hardshell Case