ESP KH-2 Vintage Distressed Black
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ESP
KH-2 Vintage Distressed Black
Product Info
Article Number:
517306
Brand:
ESP
Model:
KH-2 Vintage Distressed Black
Category:
Premium Guitars
Price:
$6,818.90
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
This KH-2 is a serious instrument—a real throwback vibe with modern EMG pickups. The Japanese build quality shines through, and the distressed finish gives it a unique, road-worn character. It's perfect for players seeking a high-gain, comfortable shred machine with a touch of vintage flair, especially those in the Metallica camp or influenced by Kirk’s signature tone.
Product Description
- ESP KH-2 Vintage Distressed Black
- Electric Guitar
- Kirk Hammett (Metallica) signature model
- Handmade in the ESP Custom Shop in Japan
- Body: Alder
- Continuous neck: Maple
- Fretboard: Rosewood
- Skull & Bones fretboard inlays
- Neck profile: Extra Thin U
- Scale length: 648 mm (25.5")
- Fretboard radius: 305 mm (12.01")
- Nut width: 42 mm (1.65")
- Locking nut
- 24 X-Jumbo frets
- Pickups: 1 EMG 81 (bridge) and 1 EMG 60A (neck) humbucker
- 2 Volume and 1 tone controls
- 3-Way switch
- Floyd Rose original tremolo
- Gotoh tuners
- Black hardware
- Factory strings: Elixir Nanoweb Super Light .009 - .042
- Colour: Distressed Black
- Incl. case
- Made in Japan
PROS
- • Japanese Custom Shop craftsmanship delivers exceptional build quality and feel
- • Alder body provides a balanced tone with good sustain and resonance
- • EMG 81/60A combo delivers aggressive high-gain and articulate cleans
- • Vintage distressed finish adds character and a unique aesthetic appeal
CONS
- • The ultra-thin neck profile may not suit players preferring a thicker feel
- • Distressed finish is subjective; may not appeal to all buyers
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players
Product Video
Key Features
Body Material
Alder
Neck Material
Maple
Fingerboard
Rosewood
Pickups
EMG 81 (bridge) / EMG 60A (neck)
Scale Length
648 mm (25.5 in)
Frets
24 X-Jumbo
Bridge
Floyd Rose Original Tremolo
Weight
Approximately 8.5 lbs (3.8 kg)
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Frequently Asked Questions
The finish itself doesn’t affect playability, but the wear patterns can create a slightly smoother feel in certain areas. It's purely cosmetic and doesn't impact the instrument's performance.
Yes, the Extra Thin U profile is noticeably slim, which can be fantastic for fast playing, but some players might find it too thin for comfort over long sessions.
The Floyd Rose original offers excellent tuning stability when properly set up; however, it requires some understanding and careful adjustment to maintain accurate pitch, especially with heavy tremolo use.
