Hard & Heavy

Hard & Heavy brings together electric guitars for hard rock, heavy metal and other heavier genres. These instruments often feature a more aggressive appearance, striking body shapes, humbuckers and comfortable access to the upper frets. When choosing one, it is important that the guitar handles high-gain distortion well and remains comfortable during extended playing sessions. The range includes models from brands such as Jackson and ESP LTD.

What defines guitars for heavier genres?

Instruments for rock and metal are often equipped with pickups that handle heavy distortion effectively. The neck tends to be thinner and faster for quick, precise playing, while the body is often shaped to avoid restricting movement when you play standing up. Striking designs such as V, Warrior and Kelly can also be found among unconventionally shaped guitars.

What to look for when choosing

Parameter	What it means	What to look out for
Body shape	Affects comfort, weight and appearance	Unusual shapes feel different when played seated and standing
Pickups	Humbuckers provide a more powerful, thicker sound	Choose according to the genre you play
Neck and scale length	The neck shape affects playing speed	Compare neck thickness and width before buying
Number of strings	Six or more strings depending on your style	For lower tunings, try a seven-string model

How to choose according to your playing style

For hard rock, a guitar with humbuckers and a fixed bridge that maintains tuning stability is often sufficient. Metal players frequently choose models with a fast neck and a suitable tremolo system for solos. Pickup quality and the amplifier also play a role with more aggressive distortion, so consider the rest of your equipment when evaluating the instrument. If you play solos on the upper frets, pay attention to the neck cutaway and neck thickness.

What to check before choosing

The guitar's weight and balance when playing standing up.
The bridge type and tuning stability.
Access to the upper frets.
The amplifier through which you will play the guitar.

If possible, try the instrument standing up with a strap before buying, as this reveals its balance and weight. 7-string guitars are intended for lower tunings and an extended range. You can find an overview of body shapes in electric guitars – all shapes. The complete range is available in the electric guitars category.