Forged in Metal: Fender and Jackson Honor 50 Years of Iron Maiden with a New Signature Line

At the top of the collection stands the Masterbuilt Dave Murray Stratocaster, created by Fender Custom Shop Masterbuilder Andy Hicks in close collaboration with Murray himself. Designed to mirror the guitarist’s ultimate touring instrument, the guitar blends select tonewoods with a sleek NOS Olympic White finish, pairing a walnut Oval “C” neck with a compound-radius rosewood fingerboard for a fast yet comfortable feel. The Seymour Duncan Hot Rails and JB Jr pickup combination delivers the punch, sustain and clarity that have powered Murray’s high-flying solos and intricate rhythm work through decades of global touring. Enhanced hardware and performance-focused upgrades ensure that this Stratocaster is built not only to honor the past but to withstand the demands of the present.

Alongside the Custom Shop model, Fender introduces a trio of production instruments that each reflect a different facet of Iron Maiden’s legendary multi-guitar attack. The 50th Anniversary Janick Gers Stratocaster captures the kinetic, vintage-leaning edge of Gers’ playing. Finished in classic black with a rosewood fingerboard, it channels the raw energy and physicality he brings to the stage, from his dramatic spins to his expressive melodic phrasing. Dual JB Jr pickups reinforce the guitar’s lively midrange presence and articulate bite, making it as spirited as the guitarist it celebrates.

A second production Stratocaster pays homage to Dave Murray’s trademark speed and fluidity. Built around the Seymour Duncan trio that has long defined his tone, the instrument incorporates a compound-radius neck and a double-locking tremolo system that supports Murray’s fast, articulate attack. Sleek and unmistakably modern in character, it stands as the counterpart to the Custom Shop model, bringing Murray’s essential features to a wider audience of players.

Representing the backbone of Iron Maiden’s sound, the 50th Anniversary Steve Harris Precision Bass embodies the commanding low-end energy that has anchored the band for half a century. With its satin-black finish, mirrored pickguard and all-maple construction, the instrument radiates the visual boldness associated with Harris’ stage presence. Its split-coil pickup and classic hardware deliver the authoritative growl and galloping clarity that have become synonymous with his playing, while subtle signature elements tie the design directly to the bassist’s long-standing connection with Fender.

Rounding out the collection, Jackson celebrates Adrian Smith with a new anniversary edition of the Jackson SC1. Known for his melodic sophistication and precise articulation, Smith personally selected the elements that shape this guitar’s voice and feel. With its combination of a DiMarzio humbucker, Fender Noiseless single coils and a smooth compound-radius fingerboard, the SC1 offers the balance of power and versatility that has defined Smith’s role in Maiden’s three-guitar system. The top-mounted Floyd Rose enhances expressiveness while maintaining the stability required for his wide-ranging lead work, from lyrical passages to blazing runs.

Together, these instruments form a cohesive tribute to Iron Maiden’s five decades of innovation, endurance and influence. Rather than presenting mere commemorative pieces, Fender and Jackson have created a lineup that feels alive — instruments designed to be played, pushed and taken onstage. In honoring the legacy of Murray, Gers, Harris and Smith, the collection captures the spirit of a band whose sound continues to shape the imagination of heavy metal guitarists around the world.