We are willing to bet, maybe with a code to Resorts casino, that this ranking won’t satisfy everyone since there are endless iconic guitars in the history of metal. But probably you’ll agree with at least some of our choices! So let’s find out which ten guitars we chose…
Washburn Dimebag Darrell
Dimebag Darrell left us too soon, but his compositions will remain forever along with his splendid, personalized Washburn, sometimes alternated with the “Dixie Rebel” model that featured a paint-job of the confederate flag.
Frankenstrat
Frankenstrat is the “creature” designed by Eddie Van Halen to combine the sound of a Gibson guitar with the physical attributes of a Fender. It was mass-produced by Kramer, making for perhaps the most emblematic guitarist/guitar pairing ever.
Gibson Explorer
When we write Gibson Explorer, Metallica frontman James Hetfield, who dominated the ’80s and ’90s with his immense and unforgettable white model, comes to mind.
Fender Stratocaster
It’s impossible not to mention this model, as well as its best known player, Jimi Hendrix, who was not really a metal musician but is always at the top of the list of guitar heroes adored by metal players.
Ibanez Joe Satriani
Joe Satriani, besides being a phenomenal player, was also a guitar teacher for Steve Vai and Kirk Hammett. The Ibanez guitar that bears his name is available in various colors, with the silver model being among the most striking.
Washburn Ace Frehley
Another ad hoc guitar for the legendary guitarist of Kiss. The Washburn dedicated to him, in addition to a very special design, is in perfect symbiosis with the colors of Ace’s trademark face paint that he always sported live (aside from the “unmasked” period, of course).
Gibson SG
Released in 1961 and still in production today, the Gibson SG (Les Paul Solid Guitar) also known as “the devil,” is anchored in the collective imagination to that elf known as Angus Young of AC/DC, but has also passed through the hands of Robbie Krieger, Frank Zappa, Tony Iommi, Eric Clapton and Derek Trucks.
Jackson Y2KV
Megadeth leader Dave Mustaine used a Jackson Y2KV with a paint job of the American flag as his main instrument during the first part of his career. He later developed his own line of evil-looking Dean guitars.
Ibanez John Petrucci
After Joe Satriani, it’s impossible not to mention another Ibanez created specifically for another monster of technique: John Petrucci of Dream Theater. The designs on the body of the instrument are absolutely iconic and are available in various very unique colors.
B.C. Rich KKV Signature V
Kerry King, founder of Slayer, has always played B.C. Rich guitars with a charge of crazy aggression. The pairing has resulted in a collaboration that has led to the creation of a line of models including the KKV Signature V, one of the most unforgettable B.C. Rich guitars known for its unique paddle neck with truly striking features.
