I guess you are here because you want to learn metal, or at least extend your playing ability by finding new inspiration? This is a smart move by any means, and you are awesome!
Who are the best guitarists to learn metal? I would suggest to start with James Hetfield and Adrian Smith as they cover your learning from slow and heavy to fast and rhythmic. But, more generally, this depend on your skills goals. Alexi Laiho as he creatively combines these features along with the best transitioning I have heard musically.
So, let us get into this in extensive detail…
Adrian Smith
Appearing on Iron Maiden most popular tracks. Adrian Smith split from Iron Maiden in 1989 and return 1999 to which he is still a current member.