Crafted to the exacting specifications of Metallica's legendary rhythm guitarist James Hetfield, the ESP Snakebyte electric guitar lets you tap into his monstrous yet articulate tone. Whether you're a veteran metalhead or an up-and-coming shredder, this signature model provides the tools to make your riffs cut through any mix. From its premium construction to custom-designed pickups, the Snakebyte is an uncompromising instrument engineered for serious players.

Built for Maximum Sustain and Clarity

At the core of the Snakebyte lies a mahogany body married to a set 3-piece mahogany neck—woods prized for their warmth, resonance and articulation. The 24.75" scale length and extra-jumbo frets allow effortless bending and vibrato, while the ebony fingerboard's silky-smooth feel facilitates blazing leads and complex chords. Anchoring the guitar, the TonePros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece transfer every ounce of string energy into thick, wailing sustain.

Hetfield's Signature EMG Pickups Deliver the Goods

You'll experience James Hetfield's iconic tone the moment you plug in the Snakebyte and let its custom EMG pickups roar. Specifically designed to Hetfield's specs, the JH SET bridges the gap between active and passive voicings. The neck humbucker uses large ceramic pole pieces for a percussive attack and chunky low end, while the bridge pickup's steel poles yield a tighter, more cutting response. No matter how intense your riffing gets, these pickups translate every nuance with ruthless precision.

Premium Appointments Worthy of the Stage

The Snakebyte leaves no detail overlooked in its quest for metal supremacy. Its rock-solid hardware includes Sperzel locking tuners that keep you in tune through marathon shred sessions, plus ESP strap locks for enhanced playing confidence. Other premium appointments like the bone nut and snake inlay at the 12th fret add a touch of class befitting a world-class ax. And the included hardshell case protects your Snakebyte as you transport it from show to show.

Unleash Your Inner Metalhead

Whether you worship at the altar of Metallica or simply demand the most from your instruments, the ESP Snakebyte is a force to be reckoned with. Expertly crafted in Japan to James Hetfield's blueprint, it provides everything you need to summon skull-crushing riffs and molten leads. Visit your local Guitar Center today and experience the Snakebyte's potent magic for yourself. One demo is all it takes to be smitten by this monster metal machine.