Best Metal Guitars: Top Picks for Shredding Guitarists in 2024

Metal music, with its powerful riffs and rapid solos, demands guitars built to handle its intensity and complexity. Guitars designed for metal are not just about aggressive looks; they’re engineered to produce the high-gain, distorted tones characteristic of the genre while offering playability for fast-paced and technical playing. Typically, these instruments feature solid bodies, thinner necks for swift finger movement, and higher-output pickups to capture every note despite heavy distortion.

The tonal quality of a metal guitar is significantly influenced by its construction materials and design features. Mahogany and alder are commonly used for the guitar bodies for their warm tone and sustain, a key attribute for maintaining the richness of sound even during high-speed shredding. The choice of pickups is also critical, as active pickups tend to offer the high output and noise reduction necessary for a crisp metal sound, while passive pickups are praised for their dynamic range and warmth.

When looking to purchase a metal guitar, it’s essential to consider the instrument’s playability. A comfortable neck profile, accessible frets, and a double-cutaway body shape can greatly enhance the playing experience, particularly for complex solos and fast riffs. Durability is also a key factor since metal playing can be demanding on the instrument. Hardware such as the bridge, tuners, and fretboard materials need to withstand constant use and potential stage antics.

Our thorough examination and testing of a wide array of metal guitars has aimed to determine the best ones in the market that stand out for their sound, playability, and build quality. We’ve scrutinized everything from the tonewood to the final fretwork to ensure these guitars can truly deliver the punch and precision metal guitarists need.

Top Picks for Best Metal Guitars

We’ve thoroughly researched and selected the most reliable metal guitars for both their fierce sound and durability. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned shredder, our curated list guarantees you’ll find the perfect axe to complement your playing style and stage presence. Trust us to guide you through the top choices that have proven to deliver the precision and heavy tones essential for any metal guitarist.

Donner Matte Black Electric

We believe this guitar is a suitable choice for beginners who want a cost-effective way to dive into metal music, offering a wide range of tones with its dual humbucker setup.

Pros

• The H-H pickup configuration gives a rich, rock-centered tone perfect for metal riffs.
• Robust matte finish safeguards the guitar against minor scratches and wear.
• The extended 24-fret neck allows exploration into higher notes for soloing.

Cons

• Stock strings may be too stiff for some, potentially requiring an early replacement.
• Stratocaster-inspired budget designs might not satisfy those seeking a distinct, high-end look.
• Limited tonal versatility compared to guitars with more complex electronics.

The Donner Matte Black Electric seamlessly fits our hands with its C-shaped neck and comfortable contours. Our recent jam session was an absolute thrill, revealing how effortlessly it can handle crunchy rhythms and piercing leads. To our delight, the fixed bridge kept string tuning stable even after some heavy bending.

It’s delightful that it comes with a starter kit. The bag, strap, and extra strings meant we were ready to play right out of the box, minus the minor hiccup of preferring a string swap for a smoother feel. Nonetheless, the matte finish not only looks sleek but also endures passionate playing sessions without showing signs of wear.

After hours of shredding, we appreciated how the 24 frets opened up new realms for our solos. While admittedly the guitar does not venture into profound tonal innovations, it lays a solid foundation for those of us eager to embark on our metal journey.

Zenison Heavy Metal Guitar

If you’re delving into the world of heavy metal guitar as a beginner, this Zenison model offers a blend of affordability and style conducive to getting those powerful riffs dialed in.

Pros

• Lightweight design makes extended play comfortable
• Deep red finish and chrome bridge give it a striking appearance
• Comes with all necessary accessories to start playing immediately

Cons

• Some users report needing adjustments on the frets
• May require a pickup upgrade for more seasoned players
• Only a handful of reviews to gauge long-term quality

From the moment I strapped on this Zenison Heavy Metal Guitar, its lightweight nature stood out. The maple neck felt stable, and the reach to the upper frets was unobstructed, which can really come in handy during complex solos or when going for those higher notes. The C-shaped neck profile felt natural in my hands, allowing for swift transitions between chords and scales.

The guitar’s solid wood body in deep red with a high gloss finish turned heads at our jam session. Its heavy metal design wasn’t just for show either; the guitar delivered the famous growl that metal enthusiasts crave, although I noted that the pickups could benefit from an upgrade for more seasoned players to really capture a fuller, more robust metal tone.

Straight out of the box, I appreciated not having to scramble for a cable or an Allen wrench. It was refreshing to be able to plug in and start riffing immediately. While it might need some initial tweaks—like most guitars in its price range—I found that with just a touch of setup, the guitar played well. It’s a solid choice for those on a budget or just starting their metal journey.

Mammoth Metal Guitar Tab Anthology

OK OK This is not a guitar, BUT…We recommend this songbook for any metal guitar enthusiast looking for a broad selection of classic riffs and solos to master.

Pros

• Wide variety of metal songs
• Clear, accurate tablature
• Satisfying for players of all levels

Cons

• Some minor tab inaccuracies
• Bulkiness may challenge portability
• Primarily in English, limiting for non-English speakers

After riffing through the songs in the “Mammoth Metal Guitar Tab Anthology,” our fingers are still buzzing with adrenaline. The transcriptions are precise for the most part, allowing you to capture the essence of metal legends with your six strings.

The thrill of nailing the solos from iconic tracks like “Master of Puppets” cannot be overstated. This tome serves as both an educational resource and a ticket to the golden days of headbanging goodness.

Admittedly, the hefty size might make it a bit cumbersome to carry around. However, the trade-off is a comprehensive catalog of songs that will keep you challenged and engaged for countless hours. Plus, the occasional tab discrepancy is a small price to pay for having such a killer compilation at your fingertips.

WestCreek Revenge

We’d absolutely recommend the WestCreek Revenge for any metal enthusiast looking for a robust sound and a high level of playability in an affordable range.

Pros

• Solid build enhances sound resonance
• Comfortable neck profile for fast playing
• Versatile heavy metal humbuckers perform well across different tones

Cons

• Bone nut may require adjustments for personal preference
• Factory setup might need tweaking to suit individual play style
• Noticeable glue line on the body may affect aesthetic appeal for some

After plugging in the WestCreek Revenge and letting it rip, we noticed immediately the ease of access to upper frets — a boon for solo-heavy metal shredding. The mahogany body resonated well, adding a nice warmth to the bone-crushing overdriven tones. What really struck us was the comfortable slim C-neck; our fretting hands moved with speed and precision, enabling prolonged play without fatigue.

On clean settings, the humbuckers offered clarity and a touch of brightness, which was surprising for a guitar that’s marketed mainly for metal. When we cranked up the gain, the guitar maintained its composure, delivering the heavy, aggressive sound that’s essential for metal genres. This versatility speaks to its capability to handle anything from crispy cleans to full-on distorted tones with ease.

We do need to mention, upon close inspection, the presence of a glue line on the finish. While it doesn’t interfere with the guitar’s playability, it’s something that aesthetically-sensitive players might find off-putting. However, considering the guitar’s price point and overall performance, this issue seems rather minor compared to the value the WestCreek Revenge brings to the table.

Ibanez GRX70QATKS

If you’re diving into the world of metal or looking to expand your collection with a cost-effective option, this Ibanez won’t disappoint with its solid performance.

Pros

• Slick neck enables swift shredding
• Aesthetic appeal of a high-end guitar
• Versatile Infinity R pickups for varied tonal options

Cons

• Factory setup may require some tweaking
• Finish may feel less premium up close
• Tuning stability could be better

Rocking out on this Ibanez 6 String, we’re first struck by the fast maple neck. It sits comfortably in our hands, making those face-melting solos a breeze. The quilted maple art grain top gives it a stylish look that definitely turns heads. We’re especially impressed with the sheer versatility of the Infinity R pickups; they offer a wide range of tones, from razor-sharp leads to crunchy rhythms.

Though we respect the guitar’s striking aesthetics, some might notice the Transparent Black Sunburst finish doesn’t hold up to the closest scrutiny – but that’s nitpicking considering its price point. Distortion is handled gracefully and it’s a joy to riff on, however, we advise taking some time to set it up to your liking since the action might be higher than what’s desired for speed playing.

Durability-wise, the guitar holds up through our rigorous jam sessions. The build quality is solid for an entry-level instrument, although the tuning doesn’t always stay true after heavy bends or vehement use of the tremolo. A quick adjustment or a potential upgrade can easily overcome this minor gripe. All in all, our collective experience with the Ibanez GRX70QATKS has shown us that it’s a worthy contender for those seeking an affordable axe to conquer the metal scene.

Buying Guide

When we’re in the market for a metal guitar, there are specific features we should focus on to find the ideal instrument that matches our playing style and sound requirements.

Key Features

• Tone Woods: We look for durable woods that can handle the high-energy performances typical of metal music. Hardwoods like mahogany offer rich, full sounds.
• Pickups: We prefer humbucker pickups for their ability to produce a thick, distortion-friendly sound without hum or noise.
• Neck Construction: A comfortable neck profile and a smooth fretboard are essential for rapid playability and comfort.

Construction & Design

• Body Shape: We assess body styles for ease of play in both standing and seated positions.
• Bridge Type: We consider a locking tremolo bridge for its ability to keep the guitar in tune even after intense dive bombs and bends.
• Fret Access: We opt for guitars with deep cutaways to easily access higher frets.

Hardware

• Tuners: We look for high-quality, reliable tuning machines.
• Frets: We evaluate the fret size and material, with jumbo frets often being the preferred choice for their ease in bending notes and creating vibrato.

Consideration Table

Consideration	Detail	Why It’s Important
Sound	Heavy, clear, distortion-ready	Essential for metal tonality
Playability	Fast neck, suitable action	Enables quick riffs and solos
Durability	Solid construction, quality hardware	Withstands rough handling
Aesthetics	Finish, color, inlays	Reflects personal style
Price	Budget-friendly to high-end	Matches financial considerations

We take a systematic approach, comparing these features without leaning towards specific brands, ensuring we can make unbiased decisions based on quality and suitability.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, we cover key questions most metal guitar enthusiasts often seek answers to, from picking high-quality instruments to making the best choice within a budget.

What are the top guitars recommended for playing heavy metal?

We recommend models such as the Ibanez RG Series, ESP LTD EC-1000, and Schecter Hellraiser for their fast necks, aggressive tones, and comfortable playability, which are ideal for heavy metal music.

Which brands are synonymous with high-quality metal guitars?

Brands such as Jackson, Ibanez, ESP, and Schecter have long-standing reputations for producing some of the finest guitars tailored to the metal genre, known for their durability, sound quality, and technical precision.

How does the number of strings on a guitar affect metal playing?

More strings, like the 7-string or 8-string guitars, offer a broader range of notes, which is advantageous for playing the extended range and complex compositions often found in certain metal subgenres.

What are some excellent metal guitar options for a budget under $1000?

Within this budget, we suggest the ESP LTD EC-401, Jackson Soloist SLX, and Ibanez RGA42FM. These guitars offer a balance of quality and affordability with features well-suited to metal, such as high-output pickups and a solid build.

Can you find quality metal guitars for under $500?

Yes, there are quality options such as the ESP LTD MH-50, Jackson JS32, and Ibanez Gio series that offer good playability and metal-centric features for an affordable price.

What features should one look for in a guitar when focusing on metal genre?

When searching for a metal guitar, we consider active pickups, a comfortable fast neck, a tremolo bridge for dive bombs, and a robust build to ensure the guitar withstands the rigors of energetic playing and touring.