ESP LTD KH-202 Kirk Hammett Signature Black Electric Guitar, (Used)
The ESP LTD KH-202 Kirk Hammett Signature in Black is a metal-focused electric guitar designed for players who want fast playability, aggressive styling and the look of one of thrash metal’s most recognisable signature models. Inspired by Kirk Hammett’s high-speed lead style, this LTD model is ideal for metal, hard rock, shred, heavy rhythm playing, lead work and players looking for a bold stage-ready guitar.
This pre-owned ESP LTD KH-202 is listed in Good condition, meaning it shows noticeable cosmetic wear but remains fully functional and ready to play.
Please note that this example is missing the rear backplate and tremolo arm. These missing parts do not stop the guitar from being played, but they are important details for buyers wanting a fully complete example.
At A Glance
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Product | ESP LTD KH-202 Kirk Hammett Signature |
| Brand | ESP LTD |
| Model | KH-202 |
| Artist Model | Kirk Hammett Signature |
| Finish | Black |
| Type | Solid Body Electric Guitar |
| Condition | Pre-Owned, Good Condition |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Bridge Type | Locking Tremolo-Style Bridge |
| Main Appeal | Affordable Kirk Hammett signature model with fast metal-focused playability |
| Best For | Metal, hard rock, shred, lead guitar, rhythm guitar and live performance |
| Skill Level | Intermediate players, metal players and committed beginners |
Condition Overview
Good Condition
This ESP LTD KH-202 Kirk Hammett Signature is in Good condition. This means it shows noticeable cosmetic wear but remains fully functional and ready to play.
Good condition is ideal for players who want a usable pre-owned signature guitar at a more affordable price, where playability, tone and style matter more than cosmetic perfection.
What’s Included?
✔ ESP LTD KH-202 Kirk Hammett Signature Black Electric Guitar
✘ No Case Included
✘ No Gigbag Included
✘ No Tremolo Arm Included
✘ Rear Backplate Missing
✘ No Additional Accessories Included
Condition Notes
This guitar shows noticeable signs of previous use, which may include visible marks, scratches, small dings or general cosmetic wear consistent with Good condition.
The rear backplate is missing, and the tremolo arm is not included. The guitar can still be played, but the missing tremolo arm means the tremolo system cannot be used in the normal way unless a suitable replacement arm is fitted.
No other faults, repairs or modifications have been supplied for this listing. The guitar has been checked for playability and functionality before sale.
Fair Deal Inspection & Assessment
This pre-owned ESP LTD KH-202 Kirk Hammett Signature has been inspected and assessed by the Fair Deal Music team before being offered for sale.
Our checks include:
- Electronics tested
- Humbuckers checked
- Pickup selector tested
- Volume and tone controls checked
- Output jack tested
- Frets inspected
- Fingerboard checked
- Tuners checked
- Locking tremolo-style bridge checked
- Neck relief assessed
- General playability assessed
- Missing rear backplate noted
- Missing tremolo arm noted
Service / Setup Work
All pre-owned guitars at Fair Deal Music are set up and checked before leaving the shop.
This ESP LTD KH-202 has been assessed for playability, with the following checked:
- Action checked
- Neck relief checked
- Frets inspected
- Tuning stability checked
- Electronics tested
- Hardware checked
- Bridge setup checked
- Intonation checked
Please note that guitar setup can sometimes shift slightly during delivery due to changes in temperature and humidity. We take this into account during our checks, but wood can naturally move in transit.
Why Choose The ESP LTD KH-202 Kirk Hammett Signature?
Kirk Hammett Signature Style
The KH-202 carries the look and attitude associated with Kirk Hammett, one of metal’s most recognisable lead guitarists. It is ideal for players who want a guitar inspired by fast solos, heavy riffs and aggressive stage performance.
Built For Metal And Hard Rock
With its dual-humbucker layout, sleek black finish and fast-playing design, the KH-202 is naturally suited to high-gain tones, heavy rhythm parts, palm-muted riffs and lead guitar work.
Fast Playing Feel
The KH-style design is aimed at players who enjoy speed, precision and technical playing. It is a strong choice for metal lead work, alternate picking, legato, bends and expressive solos.
Locking Tremolo-Style Bridge
The KH-202 is fitted with a locking tremolo-style bridge, giving players the platform for expressive pitch effects when fitted with the correct tremolo arm. This example does not include the tremolo arm, so buyers wanting to use the tremolo system will need a suitable replacement.
Black Finish
The black finish gives this guitar a sharp, stage-ready look that suits its metal-focused personality. It is bold, simple and instantly recognisable.
Strong Pre-Owned Signature Model Value
In Good condition, this KH-202 offers strong value for players who want an affordable Kirk Hammett signature model without buying new. It is a practical choice for players who are happy with cosmetic wear and the noted missing parts.
Comparison Against Popular Alternatives
ESP LTD KH-202 vs ESP LTD KH-602
The KH-602 sits higher in the LTD range and offers a more premium specification. The KH-202 is a more affordable way into the Kirk Hammett signature family, making it a strong choice for players wanting the look and feel at a lower price.
ESP LTD KH-202 vs ESP LTD M-Series Guitars
ESP LTD M-Series guitars are popular with rock and metal players who want fast playability and aggressive tones. The KH-202 adds Kirk Hammett signature identity and a more specific artist-model appeal.
ESP LTD KH-202 vs Jackson JS Series
Jackson JS guitars are strong value metal guitars with sharp styling and fast necks. The KH-202 offers similar rock and metal intent, but with the added appeal of the Kirk Hammett signature model identity.
ESP LTD KH-202 vs Ibanez RG Models
Ibanez RG guitars are known for fast playability and modern metal versatility. The KH-202 is better suited to players who specifically want ESP/LTD styling, Kirk Hammett association and a darker metal-focused look.
Who Is It For?
Metal Players
This is a strong option for players who want a guitar suited to high-gain sounds, riffing, lead work and metal performance.
Kirk Hammett And Metallica Fans
This model is ideal for players drawn to Kirk Hammett’s style, stage presence and signature guitar identity.
Intermediate Players
Intermediate players will appreciate the KH-202 as a focused metal guitar with a fast feel, humbucker power and strong stage presence.
Committed Beginners
A committed beginner who wants to learn rock and metal guitar may find this an inspiring choice, especially if they prefer a signature model with a bold look.
Suitable Genres And Uses
This ESP LTD KH-202 Kirk Hammett Signature is well suited to:
- Metal
- Thrash metal
- Hard rock
- Shred
- Alternative metal
- Heavy rhythm guitar
- Lead guitar
- Practice
- Rehearsals
- Home recording
- Studio recording
- Live performance
- Players wanting an affordable signature metal guitar
Educational Section: Why Choose A Signature Metal Guitar?
A signature metal guitar is designed to capture the look, feel and musical identity associated with a particular artist. For players, this can make the instrument more inspiring and more focused than a standard model.
The ESP LTD KH-202 is aimed at players who want a guitar suited to metal rhythm and lead work. A fast-playing neck feel, dual-humbucker layout and locking tremolo-style bridge make this type of guitar useful for heavier music, technical lead playing and expressive performance.
For players inspired by Kirk Hammett or Metallica-style guitar work, a KH model offers a direct route into that visual and musical world while remaining accessible as a pre-owned instrument.
Looking for advice on choosing the right ESP LTD guitar, metal guitar or pre-owned signature model? Our experienced team of musicians can help by phone, online or in-store.
Story & Context: ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature Guitars
Kirk Hammett’s association with ESP is one of the most recognisable artist-and-guitar partnerships in metal. His signature models are strongly linked with high-gain lead tones, fast solos and the visual identity of modern heavy music.
The LTD KH series brings that look and feel to a more accessible price point, giving players a way to own a Kirk Hammett-inspired guitar without moving into higher-end ESP pricing. The KH-202 sits as a practical option for players who want signature style, aggressive tones and fast playability in a more affordable package.
This black pre-owned example has clear player appeal, especially for metal fans looking for a usable guitar with signature identity and honest condition notes.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Product Type | Solid Body Electric Guitar |
| Brand | ESP LTD |
| Model | KH-202 |
| Artist Model | Kirk Hammett Signature |
| Finish | Black |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Pickups | Dual Humbuckers |
| Bridge | Locking Tremolo-Style Bridge |
| String Configuration | 6-String |
| Condition | Pre-Owned, Good Condition |
| Noted Missing Part | Rear Backplate Missing |
| Noted Missing Accessory | Tremolo Arm Not Included |
Power Requirements
No power supply or battery is required. This is a passive electric guitar and only needs a standard 1/4" instrument cable and a suitable guitar amplifier, pedalboard or audio interface.
Fair Deal Music Verdict
★★★★☆ 4/5
A bold and affordable Kirk Hammett signature model for players who want metal-focused style, fast playability and dual-humbucker power. The ESP LTD KH-202 is a strong option for rock and metal players, especially those inspired by Kirk Hammett’s lead guitar approach.
This Good condition example offers solid pre-owned value, with the missing backplate and tremolo arm clearly noted for buyers. Best suited to players who want a usable signature metal guitar and are happy with cosmetic wear and the listed missing parts.
Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?
Choosing Fair Deal Music means buying from a passionate team of musicians who genuinely understand the products we sell. Whether you're purchasing your first instrument, upgrading your current setup or searching for something special, we're here to help you make the right choice with friendly advice and expert support.
When you shop with Fair Deal Music, you can buy with confidence thanks to:
Expert advice from knowledgeable musicians
Carefully checked new, used, pre-owned and ex-display equipment
Competitive prices on leading music brands
Secure UK-wide delivery
Flexible finance options available (subject to status)
Friendly support before and after your purchase
A trusted independent UK music retailer with decades of experience
Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.
Thinking about upgrading? Your next piece of gear could cost less than you think.
We're always happy to consider part exchanges and trade-ins on a wide range of musical instruments and equipment. Whether you're looking to upgrade your guitar, keyboard, amplifier, drum kit or studio gear, your existing equipment could help reduce the cost of your next purchase.
Simply get in touch with our team for a no-obligation valuation, and we'll be happy to discuss the options available.
It's an easy way to unlock the value of the gear you no longer use while making your next instrument even more affordable.
FAQ
Is this a Kirk Hammett signature model?
Yes. This is an ESP LTD KH-202 Kirk Hammett Signature model.
What styles does the ESP LTD KH-202 suit?
It suits metal, thrash metal, hard rock, shred, alternative metal, lead guitar, heavy rhythm playing and high-gain tones.
Is the tremolo arm included?
No. The tremolo arm is not included.
Is the rear backplate included?
No. The rear backplate is missing.
Can the guitar still be played without the tremolo arm?
Yes. The guitar can still be played, but the tremolo system cannot be used in the normal way unless a suitable replacement tremolo arm is fitted.
What does Good condition mean?
Good condition means the guitar shows noticeable cosmetic wear, but it has been checked for function and playability before sale.
Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, it can suit committed beginners who want to learn rock and metal guitar, although it is especially well suited to intermediate metal players.
Does it work well with distortion?
Yes. The dual-humbucker layout is well suited to distortion, overdrive, high-gain amps and metal-focused pedal setups.
Does it need a battery?
No. This is a passive electric guitar and does not require a battery.
Can I try this guitar in-store?
Fair Deal Music has a large Birmingham showroom, and our team can offer advice on ESP LTD guitars, Kirk Hammett signature models and pre-owned metal guitars.