For metal and hard rock the hellraiser or the Ibanez are fairly good. But Gibson, ESP, and a few others make some that suit that style. I am not a huge metal fan, I like the "classic metal" like Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, Rainbow, Fight, Scorps (70's), 80's Metallica, and 80's Ozzy stuff. Not into "Cookie Monster" metal at all. But from what i do know that style is suited best by slim necks, very low action and high output Pups. I have a strat that just loves to sing the blues, and classic rock. My SG seems more versitile. I can play just about any style (given different effects) on it.
Just about any Ibanez works, Some Schecter (spelling?), SGs, LPs, Explorers, and some ESPs and such. I would recommend goin to the local guitar shop and messing around ALOT with as many different axes you can get your hands on. Usually things from Fender like Strats and Teles arent for metal (somehow Cantrell does it though). As far as pickups go Humbucker type seem best for that. Most standard single coil (yes the do make some super HOT singles) aren't suited for the low end "chunk" or the banshie sheeking solos, standard singles seem to work best for mid ranged country, rock, blues, and such.
Just spend some time doing some homework and playing as many as you can. If you are ready to shell out some more serious bucks on an axe, you wanna make damn sure its the one to fit you best.