Rigs / James Hetfield

James Hetfield rig: guitars, amps and pedals

The documented gear of James Hetfield (Metallica), grouped into gear families. Last verified 2026-09-30.

Build a rig around James Hetfield

The rig

Source: Equipboard · Players change gear all the time, so treat this as a snapshot, not a spec sheet. Spotted something newer? Submit a rig.

FAQ

What guitar does James Hetfield play?

According to Equipboard, James Hetfield of Metallica has used: ESP Explorer, Gibson Explorer and Fender '52 Telecaster.

What amp does James Hetfield use?

James Hetfield's documented amps include Mesa Boogie Mark IIC+, Triple Rectifier, Diezel VH4, Marshall JCM800 2203 and Roland JC-120.

What pedals does James Hetfield use?

James Hetfield's documented pedals and effects include Ibanez TS9, Klon Centaur and ProCo RAT.

How can I get a tone like James Hetfield?

Gear is only part of it: most of tone is in the hands. To see what James Hetfield's rig shares with other players you like, build a lineup around James Hetfield in the Riffrig tool.

Find the overlap. Add James Hetfield to a lineup of five and Riffrig shows the gear your favourite players have in common. Open the tool.