but two questions.what do you define as heavy metal (i.e. some bands?)and depending on your answer to the first question, are you interested in using seven-string guitars to achieve extra heaviness?
if you want to play 6 or 7 string guitars, i still recommend the Ibanez RG series guitars. they can cover a lot of heavy genres and even some punk while still being some f*cking awesome guitars. they feel great, easy to play with some bitching necks and worksmanship. if you want more of a classic heavy metal, i recommend Ibanez of course but also Gibson or Epiphone if you have a tight budget. an Epiphone Les Paul could satisfy your heaviness requirements, but i think Ibanez could probably solve most of your problems. also, check ESP/LTD guitars, they are good for that kind of stuff. maybe BC Rich, but BC Rich is all looks and aren't that cool to play because of bad necks and comfort.
consider all these possiblities but answer my questions too.
Thanks for listening to this small piece of me.