Best Metallica vinyl records under $35

Start with Master of Puppets — the thrash landmark, widely pressed and the one most people want first; it's also the cheapest way in.

Then, by what you're after:

• Ride the Lightning — the other essential early classic, a touch more melodic.
• Metallica (The Black Album) — the 180g double LP for anyone who wants the hits and the big, polished sound.
• Kill 'Em All — raw, fast debut; the Walmart-exclusive pressing is the budget route.
• Load — for the 90s hard-rock side of the band.
• St. Anger — a limited 2LP for completists.

Skip the Load Deluxe box set unless you want the deep-dive; it's well over the cap.