Best Heavy Guitars Under $2,000 2026
So, you need a heavy-hitting guitar but your bank account isn't thrilled about spending a fortune? Been there, done that. Getting a guitar that can deliver serious chug and searing leads without breaking the rent isn't impossible, but you gotta know what to look for. This list isn't about boutique axes; it's about maximizing your bang-for-the-buck in the sub-$2000 range.
Last updated: September 7, 2026
Harley Benton EX-76 Classic GHW AN w/Case
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant tones ideal for rock and blues.
- • Roswell LAF pickups offer surprisingly articulate and powerful output.
- • Slim Taper C neck profile is comfortable and fast for extended playing.
- • Amaranth fingerboard provides a smooth, responsive playing surface.
- • Mahogany body contributes to a noticeably heavier feel, may fatigue players.
- • While good, Roswell pickups aren't on par with premium aftermarket options.
- • 3-way pickup switch limits tonal versatility compared to coil-splitting options.
Harley Benton EX-76 Classic AN w/Case
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant, and sustain-rich tones.
- • Roswell LAF pickups offer surprisingly articulate and powerful output.
- • Slim Taper C neck profile is comfortable for fast playing and extended sessions.
- • Included case provides excellent protection and portability for gigging.
- • Mahogany construction can lead to a noticeably heavier instrument.
- • Pickups, while good, might lack the refinement of higher-end models.
- • 3-way switch limits pickup combinations, restricting tonal versatility.
Harley Benton Extreme-84 Progressive w/Case
- • Okoume body offers surprisingly good resonance and sustain for the price.
- • Active HBZ pickups deliver high-output, modern metal and rock tones.
- • Nyatoh neck feels comfortable and well-shaped, offering decent playability.
- • Included case provides excellent protection and convenient transport.
- • Active pickups demand a good preamp to truly shine, potentially needing upgrades.
- • Okoume can be prone to finish checking if not cared for properly.
- • 22 frets limit higher register access compared to 24-fret designs.
Solar Guitars VAR1.6FRVC+
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain
- • Maple/Ebony neck provides a snappy feel and clear upper-midrange articulation
- • Duncan Solar+ pickups offer high-output, articulate crunch and clarity
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo allows for extreme dive bombs and stable tuning
- • The Vacillator finish, while striking, can be prone to fingerprints and smudging
- • At around 8.5 lbs, it’s a substantial instrument and may be fatiguing for some players
- • The 3-way switch limits tonal flexibility compared to coil-splitting options
Solar Guitars VAR2.6CLN Canibalismo
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Duncan Solar humbuckers provide high-output, articulate tones suitable for metal.
- • Maple neck with a comfortable C profile and rosewood fretboard offers excellent playability.
- • String-thru-body design enhances sustain and tuning stability.
- • The 'Neon Canibalismo' finish might be polarizing; not everyone will love it.
- • At around 8.5 lbs, it's a hefty instrument – may be tiring for some.
- • While versatile, it's primarily geared toward heavier styles; clean tones are less inspiring.
ESP LTD Phoenix 7B Black Metal II
- • Mahogany and maple wood for thick, dark tone
- • Through-neck construction for rock-solid stability
- • Active 7-string pickup for heavy output
- • Extra-long scale length for low tuning
- • Very heavy for daily practice sessions
- • Only one volume control available
- • Lacks dedicated bass or treble knobs
Dean Guitars ML Select Flame Top TBZ
- • Seymour Duncan humbuckers deliver thick, high-output rock tone.
- • Graph Tech TUSQ nut protects strings and stays stable.
- • Flamed maple top adds visual warmth and resonance.
- • 22 jumbo frets make bending notes feel easy.
- • No specific weight listed makes the feel unknown.
- • Only two volume controls limit volume control.
- • Single tone knob restricts tone shaping options.
Dean Guitars ML 79 Floyd Duncan BBF
- • Flamed maple top adds striking visual appeal to the guitar body.
- • Seymour Duncan JB and 59 pickups deliver classic heavy metal tone.
- • Floyd Rose Special tremolo allows for precise pitch bending and dive bombs.
- • Bolt-on neck design ensures stability and easier setup adjustments.
- • Weight is not specified, so potential heaviness remains unknown.
- • No passive volume control is listed, limiting volume switching options.
- • High-gloss finish may show scratches and wear more easily than matte.
Dean Guitars ML 79 Floyd Flame Maple TBZ
- • Flamed maple top adds striking visual depth and resonance
- • Floyd Rose R3 locking nut enables double stops and whammy bar dives
- • Grover 18:1 gear ratio machine heads provide smooth tuning stability
- • V-neck profile offers comfortable access for players with larger hands
- • Set-in neck construction can reduce overall playability compared to bolt-on
- • Single volume and tone control limits tonal shaping options significantly
- • Weight not specified may cause fatigue for players with larger frames
Dean Guitars ML 79 Floyd Classic Black
- • Floyd Rose locking nut keeps tuning stable under heavy strings
- • 24.75 inch scale length offers tight string spacing
- • Jumbo frets allow fast play on the neck
- • Two humbucker pickups provide thick, warm tones
- • Floyd Rose bridge requires specialized string changes
- • Black high-gloss finish shows fingerprints easily
- • No weight listed makes balance uncertain
Dean Guitars ML 79 Gray Black Fade
- • Solid Eastern mahogany body and set neck for stability
- • Rosewood fingerboard offers a smooth playing surface
- • V-neck profile provides comfortable access for fingers
- • DMT Time Capsule humbuckers deliver thick, powerful tone
- • No weight information listed in the description
- • Only one tone control limits tone shaping options
- • Single 3-way switch lacks individual pickup control
Epiphone Flying V 70s Maui Blue
- • Mahogany body paired with ebony fingerboard for solid resonance
- • GraphTech nut provides precise intonation across all frets
- • T-Type Pro humbuckers deliver strong output and punch
- • Rounded C neck profile offers comfortable playability
- • Mahogany set neck construction limits tonal variety
- • Single tone control restricts pickup blending options
- • No weight specification makes handling unclear
Dean Guitars MLX Floyd Black Satin
- • Solid nato body with flamed maple top for good resonance
- • V neck profile fits most hands comfortably
- • Floyd Rose locking bridge allows full dive bombing
- • Grover tuners hold tight for stable tuning
- • Rosewood fingerboard can be slippery in rain
- • No weight listed means heavy when loaded
- • Two pickups limit tone variety compared to three
Harley Benton EX-84 Modern EMG BK w/Case
- • Nyatoh body offers surprising resonance and sustain.
- • EMG 81/60 combo delivers aggressive high-output tones.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a slick, fast playing experience.
- • Slim Taper C neck profile is comfortable for extended playing.
- • Nyatoh can be a bit heavy, expect a substantial feel.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to guitars with more controls.
- • Hardware, while functional, feels a step below premium options.
Harley Benton EX-76 Classic GHW AN w/Bag
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Roswell LAF pickups offer a surprisingly articulate and powerful high-gain sound.
- • Slim Taper C neck profile is comfortable and fast for a wide range of playing styles.
- • Amaranth fingerboard provides a smooth playing experience and adds to the guitar's clarity.
- • Mahogany body construction results in a noticeably heavier instrument – could be tiring for some.
- • While capable, the pickup voicing might lack the nuanced complexity of higher-end options.
- • The included gig bag, while functional, is basic and offers limited protection.
Every heavy guitars that matches
173 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Harley Benton EX-76 Classic GHW AN | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 381 mm (15") · Body Nyatoh body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $382 |
| 17 | Harley Benton EX-76 Classic AN w/Bag | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 381 mm (15") · Body Nyatoh body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $359 |
| 18 | Harley Benton EX-76 Classic AN | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 381 mm (15") · Body Nyatoh body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $348 |
| 19 | Harley Benton Extreme-84 Progressive Series | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Okoume body | $231 |
| 20 | Harley Benton Extreme-84 Progressive w/Bag | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Okoume body | $231 |
| 21 | Harley Benton Extreme-76 BK Classic Bundle | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Okoume body | $196 |
| 22 | Harley Benton Extreme-76 BK Classic w/Bag | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Okoume body | $185 |
| 23 | Harley Benton Extreme-76 BK Classic Series | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Okoume body | $173 |
| 24 | Solar Guitars X1.7FRQBB+ | Scale 673 mm (26.5") · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 7-string · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,742 |
| 25 | Solar Guitars VAR1.6FRGN | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,626 |
| 26 | Solar Guitars SBR1.6VC+ Vacillator Gloss | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,161 |
| 27 | Solar Guitars AB2.7Blue Burst Thomann LTD | Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 7-string · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $929 |
| 28 | Solar Guitars AB2.7Red Burst Thomann LTD | Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 7-string · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $927 |
| 29 | Solar Guitars AB2.6Red Burst Thomann LTD | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 356 mm (14.02") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $903 |
| 30 | Harley Benton MB-20BK Rock Series Bundle | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 4.2 kg | $185 |
| 31 | Harley Benton BS-20BK Rock Series w/Bag | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $162 |
| 32 | Harley Benton BS-20BK Rock Series | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $150 |
| 33 | Harley Benton WL-20BK Rock Series | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $138 |
| 34 | Dean Guitars ML Sel Floyd Quilt Maple TBZ | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,858 |
| 35 | Dean Guitars ML 79 Fld Flame Dunc Slime LH | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,161 |
| 36 | Dean Guitars ML 79 Fld Flame Top Duncan TBZ | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,161 |
| 37 | Dean Guitars ML 79 Fld Flame Top Dunc Slime | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,161 |
| 38 | Ibanez XPT420DX-RGC | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,161 |
| 39 | Dean Guitars Morningstar Classic Floyd SVB | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $998 |
| 40 | Dean Guitars ML 79 Black Blue Fade | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $812 |
| 41 | Dean Guitars ML 79 Classic Black | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $812 |
| 42 | Dean Guitars ML 79 Red Black Fade | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $812 |
| 43 | Dean Guitars Kerry King VX BKS | Nut width 41.3 mm (1.63") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $789 |
| 44 | Dean Guitars Kerry King Overlord X GMGY | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $789 |
| 45 | Dean Guitars Doyle Annihilator X BKS | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 27 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $789 |
| 46 | Dean Guitars MLX Quilt Maple Scary Cherry | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $754 |
| 47 | Dean Guitars MLX Quilt Maple TBZ | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $754 |
| 48 | Harley Benton EX-84 Modern EMG VW w/Case | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Nyatoh body · Weight 6 kg | $545 |
| 49 | Jackson Excl Rhoads JS32T Nat Oil | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 304.8 mm (12") · Body Mahogany body | $452 |
| 50 | Harley Benton EX-84 Modern WH w/Case | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Nyatoh body · Weight 6 kg | $440 |
| 51 | Harley Benton EX-84 Modern BK w/Case | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Nyatoh body · Weight 6 kg | $440 |
| 52 | Harley Benton Victory-BK LH Classic Series | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Basswood body | $173 |
| 53 | ESP LTD RS-1000 PW | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,975 |
| 54 | ESP LTD NV-1000 Black | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,975 |
| 55 | ESP LTD Arrow Black Metal II | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,975 |
| 56 | ESP LTD EXL-7B Black Metal II | Nut width 48 mm (1.89") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,975 |
| 57 | ESP LTD EXL Black Metal II | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,858 |
| 58 | Jackson Pro Plus Phil Demmel KV | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,858 |
| 59 | ESP LTD Snakebyte BKLS | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,740 |
| 60 | Jackson Pro Plus Pure Metal KE1A SBLK | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 304.8 mm (12") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,684 |
| 61 | Solar Guitars A1.6FRCAR Sustaniac+ | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,626 |
| 62 | Jackson Pro Corey Beaulieu KV6Q FR | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,615 |
| 63 | Jackson Pro Plus Pure Metal RR1A SBLK | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 304.8 mm (12") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,610 |
| 64 | Solar Guitars AB1.6FRMNS Sustainiac+ | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $1,510 |
| 65 | Ibanez FRM350-BK Paul Gilbert | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,393 |
| 66 | Epiphone Prophecy Extura AJBM | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 24 frets · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,254 |
| 67 | ESP LTD ARROW-400 CM | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,161 |
| 68 | ESP LTD ARROW-400 SM | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,161 |
| 69 | Epiphone Flying V Prophecy Aged BTB | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 24 frets · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,161 |
| 70 | Epiphone Lzzy Hale Explorer Custom BDHS | Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,161 |
| 71 | Epiphone Flying V Prophecy Aged JBM | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 24 frets · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,155 |
| 72 | Jackson RRT Rhoads Black | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 22 frets · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,138 |
| 73 | Epiphone Explorer 80s EMG Classic White | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,103 |
| 74 | Epiphone Futura Firebird Custom QS | Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 254 mm (10") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,084 |
| 75 | Epiphone Prophecy Extura ABTB | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 24 frets · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,042 |
| 76 | ESP LTD GH-SV-200 BLK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $929 |
| 77 | ESP LTD EXL-200 Black | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $917 |
| 78 | Epiphone Firebird Wine Red LH | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $870 |
| 79 | Jackson Scott Ian KVXT BLK | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $870 |
| 80 | ESP LTD HEX-200 Nergal BLKS | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $812 |
| 81 | ESP LTD EX-200 Olympic White | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $754 |
| 82 | ESP PHOENIX-201 BK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $696 |
| 83 | ESP LTD PHX-200DX BB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $580 |
| 84 | ESP LTD PHX-200DX RB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $580 |
| 85 | Harley Benton EX-84 Modern EMG BK w/Bag | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Nyatoh body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $475 |
| 86 | Harley Benton EX-84 Modern EMG BK | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Nyatoh body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $464 |
| 87 | Harley Benton Victory Plus BK Vintage w/Bag | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Okoume body | $266 |
| 88 | Harley Benton Victory Plus BK Vintage Bundle | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Okoume body | $266 |
| 89 | Harley Benton Victory Plus BK Vintage Series | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Okoume body | $255 |
| 90 | Harley Benton RX-10 BK Rock Series | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Poplar body | $150 |
| 91 | Solar Guitars X1.6Coroner | Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,975 |
| 92 | Solar Guitars X1.6FRPN Canibalismo+ | Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,626 |
| 93 | Solar Guitars A1.6SVART+ | Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,510 |
| 94 | Solar Guitars A1.61FR Assassin | Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,393 |
| 95 | Solar Guitars V2.6C | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 647 mm (25.47") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,045 |
| 96 | Solar Guitars A2.6C | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 647 mm (25.47") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $929 |
| 97 | Harley Benton MB-20BK Rock Series | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $138 |
| 98 | Harley Benton Electric Guitar Kit Extreme-84 | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") | $185 |
| 99 | Harley Benton Electric Guitar Kit Victory | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") | $150 |
| 100 | Jackson Brandon Ellis Pro Kelly Gr.Cr. | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Poplar body | $1,510 |
| 101 | Ibanez XPTB620-BKF | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Okoume body | $1,463 |
| 102 | Jackson KVTMG Pro King V Snow White | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 22 frets · Body Mahogany body | $1,208 |
| 103 | Jackson Pro KV King V Gloss Black | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Mahogany body | $1,161 |
| 104 | Jackson RRX24-MG7 Rhoads X Ser. SBK | Nut width 47.6 mm (1.87") · Scale 673 mm (26.5") · Strings 7-string · Body Poplar body | $1,080 |
| 105 | Jackson Demmelition Fury PDT SW | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Mahogany body | $975 |
| 106 | Jackson Demmelition Fury PD RTF | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Mahogany body | $940 |
| 107 | Jackson RRX24 Black with Yellow Bevels | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Basswood body | $929 |
| 108 | Jackson RRX24 Rhoads Black | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Poplar body | $929 |
| 109 | Jackson RRX24M White w/Black PinStripe | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Basswood body | $917 |
| 110 | Jackson RRX24 Red wBlack Bevels | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Poplar body | $882 |
| 111 | Epiphone Firebird Wine Red | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $847 |
| 112 | Schecter C-6 Deluxe SBK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Basswood body | $499 |
| 113 | Harley Benton EX-84 Modern EMG VW w/Bag | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Nyatoh body | $475 |
| 114 | Harley Benton EX-84 Modern EMG VW | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Nyatoh body | $464 |
| 115 | Jackson JS32 Warrior SBK AH | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Basswood body | $429 |
| 116 | Jackson JS32 King V AH M Army Drab | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Poplar body | $429 |
| 117 | Jackson JS32 Rhoads AH Ivory | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Poplar body | $417 |
| 118 | Jackson JS32T King V AH BK | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Poplar body | $394 |
| 119 | Harley Benton EX-84 Modern WH w/Bag | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Nyatoh body | $359 |
| 120 | Harley Benton EX-84 Modern BK w/Bag | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Nyatoh body | $359 |
| 121 | Harley Benton EX-84 Modern VW | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Nyatoh body | $348 |
| 122 | Harley Benton EX-84 Modern BK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Nyatoh body | $348 |
| 123 | Harley Benton Victory Active SBK w/Bag | Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Okoume body | $231 |
| 124 | Harley Benton Victory Active SBK | Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Okoume body | $220 |
| 125 | Jackson JS1X Rhoads Minion Satin Black | Nut width 41.3 mm (1.63") · Scale 572 mm (22.52") · Frets 24 frets · Body Poplar body | $208 |
| 126 | Harley Benton Victory-BK Classic Series | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets · Body Poplar body | $162 |
| 127 | Solar Guitars E1.6AAN Aged Natural Matte | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Alder body | $1,858 |
| 128 | Jackson ProPlus Series Rhoads RR24 MIR | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,729 |
| 129 | Jackson ProPlus Series Rhoads SNOW WH | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,645 |
| 130 | Solar Guitars X2.6FRGN+ | Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,393 |
| 131 | Solar Guitars V2.6Canibalismo+ | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,161 |
| 132 | Epiphone Futura Explorer Custom DS | Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,103 |
| 133 | Epiphone Flying V Custom Futura SolS | Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 254 mm (10") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,103 |
| 134 | Epiphone Futura Explorer Custom FS | Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,072 |
| 135 | Epiphone Futura Firebird Custom FS | Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,068 |
| 136 | Schecter Damien Platinum 6 SBK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Fingerboard radius 355 mm (13.98") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,068 |
| 137 | Jackson X Series Rhoads RRX24 PRPL | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Frets 24 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $929 |
| 138 | Jackson X Series Kex DPM | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Fingerboard radius 304.8 mm (12") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $877 |
| 139 | ESP LTD Arrow-200 Black | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $808 |
| 140 | Jackson Pro Rhoads RRT-3 IV/BK Stripes | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 22 frets | $1,211 |
| 141 | Jackson X Series Scott Ian King V | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets | $1,033 |
| 142 | Hagstrom Fantomen White | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 22 frets | $987 |
| 143 | Jackson JS32 King V AH Gloss Black | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets | $429 |
| 144 | Jackson JS32 Warrior AH SW | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets | $429 |
| 145 | Jackson JS32 King V WH AH | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets | $429 |
| 146 | Jackson JS32 Kelly Ferrari Red AH | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets | $429 |
| 147 | Jackson JS32 Kelly Snow White | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets | $407 |
| 148 | Jackson JS32T AH Kelly Viola Burst | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets | $382 |
| 149 | Harley Benton Electric Guitar Kit Extreme-76 | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Frets 22 frets | $138 |
| 150 | ESP LTD Vulture BLKS | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Body Mahogany body | $1,858 |
| 151 | Schecter E-1 Custom Special Edition VSB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Body Mahogany body | $1,393 |
| 152 | Schecter Sun Valley Super Shredder FRS | Nut width 41.3 mm (1.63") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Mahogany body | $1,277 |
| 153 | Jackson KVXMG King V Satin Black | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Poplar body | $881 |
| 154 | ESP LTD Alexi-200 Black | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Mahogany body | $812 |
| 155 | Jackson JS32 MAH Rhoads Natural | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Mahogany body | $494 |
| 156 | Jackson JS32 King V AH BK | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Poplar body | $429 |
| 157 | Jackson JS32 Rhoads AH BK | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Poplar body | $429 |
| 158 | Jackson JS32 Rhoads AH SG | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Basswood body | $417 |
| 159 | Jackson JS32T Kelly AH SBK | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Poplar body | $394 |
| 160 | Jackson JS32 T King V FR AH | Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Poplar body | $389 |
| 161 | Ibanez PSM10-BKPaul Stanley Sign. | Nut width 41 mm (1.61") · Scale 564 mm (22.2") · Body Poplar body | $382 |
| 162 | Jackson JS32T Rhoads AH WH | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Poplar body | $368 |
| 163 | Jackson JS32T Rhoads AH SBK | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Poplar body | $360 |
| 164 | Jackson ProPlus Series Rhoads Deep BK | Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,603 |
| 165 | Epiphone Flying V Custom Futura QuiS | Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,103 |
| 166 | Schecter E-1 SLS Evil Twin SBK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") | $1,916 |
| 167 | ESP LTD Snakebyte SW | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") | $1,807 |
| 168 | ESP LTD Arrow-1000NT CHMS | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") | $1,614 |
| 169 | Schecter Synyster Gates Standard Gloss | Nut width 41.3 mm (1.63") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") | $1,277 |
| 170 | Solar Guitars A2.6 LN | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") | $987 |
| 171 | Jackson Warrior WRX24 Satin Black | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Frets 24 frets | $843 |
| 172 | Schecter C-6 Deluxe SMLB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") | $440 |
| 173 | Jackson JS32T Warrior NO AH | Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets | $406 |
Heavy Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 173 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
How to Choose the Best Heavy Guitars
Pickups
They're the heart of a heavy guitar. Expect hotter output, but listen for articulation. Muddy pickups just turn into a wall of noise. A good pickup will let your palm muting actually mean something.
Bridge & Hardware
A Floyd Rose tremolo is cool, but a stable, reliable bridge is crucial for staying in tune when you're really attacking it. Cheap hardware often means tuning instability - a massive headache on stage.
Neck Profile
This is personal, but a comfortable neck is non-negotiable. Chunky necks are great for some, but a thick, unwieldy neck will kill your playing speed. Try before you buy if possible.
Wood & Construction
Don't expect premium tonewoods like roasted maple or figured mahogany at this price point. However, solid wood bodies (as opposed to chambered or hollow) will generally resonate better and offer more sustain.
Finish & Fretwork
These are the details that separate a decent guitar from a frustrating one. Rough fret edges and a poorly applied finish can seriously impact playability - something you'll notice quickly in a live setting.
Buying Guide
At this budget, you're making trade-offs. Expect some compromises - the finish might not be flawless, the hardware might be a step down from top-tier, and the wood choices will be more standard. Don't chase looks; prioritize a stable platform with good pickups and a comfortable neck. Upgrading pickups later is always an option, but a bad neck profile is a deal-breaker.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 173 heavy guitars from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.