Kirk Hammett and Gibson Custom unveil “The Raven,” a dark new legend

Gibson Custom has revealed its latest collaboration with Metallica’s Kirk Hammett — an acoustic guitar called The Raven, designed as a dark, dramatic counterpart to the classic Hummingbird. Limited to only 100 pieces worldwide, each instrument is handcrafted in Bozeman, Montana, and personally signed by Hammett himself.

The Raven pairs a Sitka spruce top with mahogany back and sides, featuring a bound ebony fretboard with star inlays and a striking mother-of-pearl raven skull on the headstock. Dual black pickguards, a raven-inspired tailpiece, and a deep ebony finish give the guitar a sleek, cinematic presence — equal parts elegance and shadow.

Inside, the Raven carries an L.R. Baggs Element VTC +4 system that delivers Gibson’s signature acoustic warmth with added clarity and punch for stage performance. Each guitar comes housed in a black Gibson Custom hardshell case, complete with a certificate of authenticity and a custom raven strap.

Hammett described the model as “a tribute to tone, darkness, and imagination.” It’s a piece that bridges metal intensity and acoustic craftsmanship, showing that even the heaviest players can speak softly when the instrument has this much presence.

The Gibson Custom Kirk Hammett Raven is available now through Gibson’s official site:

By Dara Christine – October 28 2025