LIRONCROSSSW vs LVULTUREBLKS — Compare
ESP LTD IRON CROSS/SW guitar vs ESP LTD JH VULTURE/BLKS guitar
Both are high-end James Hetfield signature metal guitars with nearly identical hardware and electronics, differing mainly in body shape and visual aesthetic. The Iron Cross suits players who want a classic, striking snow-white appearance with proven Hetfield lineage, while the Vulture appeals to those preferring a modern, aggressive body design in understated black satin.
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Specs side by side
| ESP LTD IRON CROSS/SW guitar | ESP LTD JH VULTURE/BLKS guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,599.00 | $1,599.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Body | Single Cutaway | Explorer |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 24.75" Scale | 24.75" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | 22 Frets | 22 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | Mahogany | Mahogany |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck | Set-Neck |
| Pickup Configuration | Active HH | Active HH |
| Bridge | Tune-O-Matic / Stopbar | Tune-O-Matic / Stopbar |
| Year | 2022 | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose ESP LTD IRON CROSS/SW guitar
- ✓ Iconic snow white finish with black stripes—unmistakable visual statement
- ✓ Iron Cross inlay at 12th fret adds signature Hetfield branding detail
- ✓ Proven design associated with Hetfield's most celebrated work
Why choose ESP LTD JH VULTURE/BLKS guitar
- ✓ Modern, angular Vulture body shape emphasizes aggressive aesthetics
- ✓ Black satin finish is versatile for studio and stage without showing wear as easily
- ✓ Explicitly optimized for drop tunings and palm-muted chugging
Frequently asked questions
Are the pickups and hardware the same on both?
Yes. Both feature dual active EMG JH SET pickups, Tonepros locking TOM bridges, 22 XJ frets, 24.75 inch scale, 42mm nut width, set-neck mahogany construction, and 350mm fingerboard radius. Electronics and hardware are functionally identical.
Which is better for drop tunings?
The Vulture is explicitly noted as optimized for drop tunings and palm-muted chugging. Both guitars have the stable hardware for tuning retention, but the Vulture's description emphasizes this application.
What's the main difference between these guitars?
The primary differences are body shape (Iron Cross versus Vulture), finish color and style (snow white with black stripes versus black satin), and intended visual presentation. Tone and playability specifications are essentially the same.
Which one looks less flashy on stage?
The black satin Vulture is more understated and subtle. The snow white Iron Cross with black stripes makes a bold visual statement and is designed to be an unmistakable visual presence.