LARROW1000ETBLK-B vs LIRONCROSSSWLH-B0439 — Compare
ESP LTD ARROW-1000ET Evertune Black Guitar B-Stock vs ESP LTD Iron Cross James Hetfield Lefty Guitar B-Stock 0439
The Arrow-1000ET is a speed-focused, ultra-modern instrument with a neck-thru design and Evertune bridge for perfect tuning stability, while the Iron Cross is a classic set-neck metal platform optimized for powerful rhythm playing and heavy riffing. Choose the Arrow-1000ET if you need maximum tuning reliability and versatile voicing; choose the Iron Cross if you prioritize aggressive rhythm tone and a signature Hetfield design.
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ESP LTD ARROW-1000ET Evertune Black Guitar B-Stock
ESP LTD Iron Cross James Hetfield Lefty Guitar B-Stock 0439
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD ARROW-1000ET Evertune Black Guitar B-Stock | ESP LTD Iron Cross James Hetfield Lefty Guitar B-Stock 0439 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,279.20 | $1,259.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Series | LTD Arrow | LTD Snakebyte |
| Body | Explorer | Single Cutaway |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 25.5" Scale | 24.75" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | 24 Frets | 22 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | Maple | Mahogany |
| Pickup Configuration | — | Active HH |
| Bridge | Fixed | Fixed |
| Year | 2023 | 2024 |
| Condition | Refurbished | Refurbished |
Why choose ESP LTD ARROW-1000ET Evertune Black Guitar B-Stock
- ✓ Evertune F-model bridge eliminates tuning drift during extended performances
- ✓ Neck-thru construction with extra-thin U profile maximizes upper-fret access and speed
- ✓ Fishman Fluence Modern Humbuckers offer dual-voicing versatility (warm to punchy) via push-pull control
- ✓ 25.5-inch scale length supports aggressive bending and drop tunings
Why choose ESP LTD Iron Cross James Hetfield Lefty Guitar B-Stock 0439
- ✓ James Hetfield signature design with EMG JH SET pickups tuned for crushing rhythm tones
- ✓ Set-neck construction delivers classic sustain and resonance with mahogany/maple cap warmth
- ✓ TonePros locking tune-o-matic bridge and Sperzel locking tuners provide reliable tuning stability
- ✓ 24.75-inch scale length and 350mm radius favor controlled power chords and fast riffing
Frequently asked questions
Which guitar stays in tune better during long performances?
The Arrow-1000ET's Evertune F-model bridge is specifically engineered to eliminate tuning drift, making it the best choice for extended sets. The Iron Cross relies on quality locking hardware (TonePros and Sperzel) which is stable but does not use Evertune technology.
Which is easier to play fast lines on?
The Arrow-1000ET's neck-thru construction with extra-thin U profile and extra upper-fret access is optimized for speed and technical work. The Iron Cross has a thin U profile and set-neck design that also supports fast playing, but the Arrow-1000ET's overall design slightly favors speed-focused players.
What tone character should I expect from each?
The Arrow-1000ET delivers versatile punchy-to-warm tones via dual-voicing Fluence pickups. The Iron Cross is tuned specifically for aggressive, high-output metal rhythm tones with tight low-end and warm punch—it's designed to replicate Hetfield's signature sound.
Does the scale length difference matter?
Yes: the Arrow-1000ET uses a 25.5-inch scale (standard Fender-style) for slightly higher tension and brighter highs, while the Iron Cross uses 24.75 inches (Gibson-style) for a warmer feel and slightly easier bending. Both support drop tunings, but the extra scale length on the Arrow-1000ET provides marginally more sustain.