Which Axe?

[Fiber-Optics]

So for Christmas I will be getting atleast 400 bucks from my family and I have about 150ish dollars saved up. I have been looking at guitars in this price range and I am stuck between 3 guitars Hamer Standard (explorer shape comes with duncans already, import model), LTD Viper 400, and a Dillion Les Paul Copy. The Dillion would need pickup change but I would hold off for a month or two. If you had to choose from those 3 which would you pick and why? I have tested all 3 and love all 3, I am leaning toward the Hamer but just wanted to see what you guys thought about the other selections.

[callous_frigid_chill]

Re: Which Axe?

Do you have an opportunity to play all of them?

[Fiber-Optics]

Re: Which Axe?

Yeah I have tested them all, I just wanted to see if any forum members can give me any thoughts so I can go re-evaluate the guitars.

[Xeromus]

Re: Which Axe?

the ESP viper BY FAR. The Dillion is alright, but it will need a fret job also.

[Hellion]

Re: Which Axe?

I like Hamer Standards. I still think that they put a lot of work into their instruments. Plus, I'm a sucker for that Explorer shape.

[frigginalex]

Re: Which Axe?

Of the three, I've only ever played the ESP. It's a really nice guitar that yields a thicker, heavier sound than you think it would what with it being SG-like in body. I'd get that one if I were you.

[big_black]

Re: Which Axe?

I dig the Vipers, and Hamers are supposed to be pretty good. Never played one though. Have you thought about buying used? You often get more bang for the buck buying used.

[JeffB]

Re: Which Axe?

Is the Viper the SG style ESP?

I played one recently. Nice playing instrument...just never cared much for SG's, and don't care for the EMG pups either, personally.

I'd prolly go w/ the Hamer myself..it's got better (IMO) pups, and I too am a sucker for the Explorer shape (not to mention it's a very comfy guitar to play)

[Fiber-Optics]

Re: Which Axe?

Thanks for the Imput guys, I am going to go try them all out again in a couple of days. The Standard will most likely be my choice, if I ever get gas for a sg type guitar I'll buy one of those 200 dollar epiphone ones and mod it up as a project.

[Kac]

Re: Which Axe?

My choice, even though you may have already made up your mind, would be the ESP viper.
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