Gibson, the legendary guitar manufacturer, has recently collaborated with Kirk Hammett, the lead guitarist of Metallica, to create a brand new Flying V model. Dubbed as the Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V model, this guitar is based on Hammett’s own instrument that he used on all the early Metallica albums. However, the price of this guitar is quite steep, and it is not for the faint-hearted.
The Hammett model is a true work of art, as it mirrors every chip and dent from Hammett’s actual guitar. This is made possible thanks to Gibson’s new Murphy Lab, which is a team of artisans who specialize in creating vintage-style guitars with a distressed look. The Murphy Lab uses a variety of techniques to artificially age the guitar, including sanding, staining, and relic-ing the body and hardware.
The Hammett model is also a feast for the eyes, as it features a nitrocellulose Ebony finish that gives it a sleek and elegant look. The Mahogany body provides a warm and rich tone, while the 12″-radius Indian Rosewood fingerboard offers a comfortable and smooth playing experience. The guitar also comes with a pair of uncovered T-Type humbuckers that deliver a high-output sound with plenty of sustain.
However, as mentioned earlier, the price of the Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V model is not for everyone. At a whopping $14,999, this guitar is one of the most expensive models in Gibson’s current lineup. But for die-hard Metallica fans and guitar collectors, this guitar is worth every penny.
The Gibson-Kirk Hammett collaboration is not the first time that a guitar manufacturer has teamed up with a famous musician to create a signature model. In fact, many famous guitarists have their own signature models, which are often highly sought-after by fans and collectors alike.
One of the most famous signature models is the Fender Stratocaster, which was designed in collaboration with Jimi Hendrix. The Stratocaster is one of the most iconic guitars of all time, and Hendrix’s signature model is a tribute to his legacy as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
Another famous signature model is the Les Paul, which was designed in collaboration with the legendary guitarist Les Paul. The Les Paul is known for its rich and warm tone, and it has been used by countless famous guitarists over the years, including Jimmy Page, Slash, and Eric Clapton.
The Gibson-Kirk Hammett collaboration has produced a truly remarkable guitar that is a must-have for Metallica fans and guitar collectors. While the price may be steep, the attention to detail and the high-quality craftsmanship make this guitar worth every penny. And who knows, maybe one day the Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V model will become as iconic as the Fender Stratocaster or the Les Paul.
Only 200 of the Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V were hand-made by the Gibson Custom Shop in Nashville, TN, and you too can own one for the low price of $14,999. Get it here.