QC Checks: Oglemi, Windsong, Honko
GP Checks: Moo, Ritter
[Overview]
<p>During the early Black and White OU era, Kabutops was at its zenith. It had just acquired the perfect teammate in Politoed, and together with its fellow Swift Swim users, they began a journey to become the very best. Unfortunately, all fairy tales must come to an end, and the show "Politoed and the Swift Swim Buddies" was banned, deemed inappropriate for younger viewers such as Mew. It was a sad day for everyone; the cast and crew said their goodbyes and each went about their own journeys. Politoed and Kingdra both went on to become famous stars in their respective tiers, but Kabutops began to slit its wrists in order to escape reality. It soon became evident that an intervention was necessary, and it was decided that Kabutops needed a change in scenery. Old friends and rivals alike, such as Ludicolo and Omastar, invited Kabutops to try out for an all new show "Black and White RU," and with that, a new saga began.</p>
<p>In the series premiere, Kabutops proved itself a force to be reckoned with. With a Swords Dance boost and rain support, it could chop down entire jungles (although in a future episode, Mojombo King Tangrowth would prove too powerful an adversary). Even without rain support, Kabutops proved its worth as a vicious sweeper, as a +2 Waterfall or Stone Edge is nothing to scoff at. In times of desperation, Kabutops would selflessly help its team with Rapid Spin or Stealth Rock, as opposing spinners and spinblockers are hard pressed to switch into it. So how will this drama end? Tune in to this analysis to find out more.</p>
[SET]
name: Offensive Spinner
move 1: Rapid Spin
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Swords Dance / Foresight
item: Life Orb
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Jolly / Adamant
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Kabutops is quite the formidable sweeper, especially under the rain, so Ghost-types will be wary of switching in, as they do not want to eat a +2 Waterfall or Stone Edge. This mutated horseshoe crab can use this to its advantage and pull off a spin in the hazard infested RU tier. Rapid Spin is, of course, the most important move on this set, and is the weapon (no, it's not the scythes) that sets Kabutops apart from the crowd. Waterfall is its main STAB, and can puncture some of the bulkiest of walls when backed by the downpour of rain. Stone Edge, while frustratingly inaccurate, provides excellent coverage and power. Foresight guarantees Kabutops a successful spin regardless of opposing Ghost-types, although Swords Dance is preferred because a +2 Kabutops can plow through most spinblockers anyway. Furthermore, Kabutops can send a few other Pokemon to the afterlife after it has cleaned those annoying Rocks and Spikes off the stage.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Maximum Speed and Attack investment works best for janitorial service, while the choice of nature depends on preference. A Jolly nature allows Kabutops to outpace neutral natured base 90s, as well as Speed-tie opposing base 80s, whereas an Adamant nature allows Kabutops to sharpen its blades even more. Aqua Jet can be used in place of Waterfall as a priority STAB move. However, this is inadvisable, as Waterfall is Kabutops's most reliable STAB move. Night Slash can be used to hit Ghost-types, although a super effective Night Slash does less damage than a neutral Stone Edge. Hone Claws can be used to mitigate Stone Edge's atrocious accuracy, although more often than not, Kabutops will find itself using Waterfall, and the drop in power from losing Swords Dance is very noticeable. Similarly, Rock Slide can be used instead of Stone Edge for improved accuracy; however, it's accuracy is not perfect either, and the significant loss of power usually isn't worth it. If opting not to run rain support, Weak Armor can be used instead, as Kabutops can grab a free Speed boost when hit by a physical move, which allows it to outspeed most of the unboosted tier. However, keep in mind that many Choice Scarf users have above base 80 Speed and will outspeed and KO Kabutops regardless; the drop in Defense certainly wont help with this either.</p>
<p>Pokemon that appreciate the field being cleared of entry hazards, such as Moltres and Scyther, enjoy Kabutops's presence. Moltres also happens to be able to burn down the likes of Ferroseed and Tangrowth, who wall Kabutops hard. Fighting-types such as Hitmonlee and Medicham are also helpful for taking out Ferroseed. However, the most important thing of all is to get rid of Kabutops's sworn enemy, Rotom. Not only does this Beyblade-esque Ghost block Rapid Spin, it can also outspeed Kabutops outside of the rain and fire off a powerful Electric STAB attack. Like with any other Rapid Spinner, a Pursuit trapper, such as Spiritomb or Absol, would do well alongside the rain assassin. Finally, Kabutops gets absolutely dominated by Mach Punch users, and is walled by bulky Waters, such as Poliwrath and Qwilfish. A Psychic-type, such as Uxie, can easily take hits for Kabutops and dispose of these threats. Uxie also doubles as a Rain Dance user, making Kabutops all the more threatening.</p>
[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Aqua Jet / Superpower
item: Life Orb
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Jolly / Adamant
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Unlike the Rapid Spin sets, this set focuses solely on shredding through entire teams. Swords Dance is Kabutops's call of war; at +2, very few Pokemon can stand up to its deadly STAB moves. With rain up, it becomes even more difficult to contain this assailant's rage. Simply bring it in against a non-threatening Pokemon such as Entei, set up, sit back, and watch the show. Waterfall is the main STAB move, which when backed by rain, allows Kabutops to blast through any Pokemon that does not resist it. Stone Edge brings some much needed coverage, along with some much unneeded unreliability, but that's a story for another day. Superpower allows Kabutops to dispose of Ferroseed, who otherwise walls Kabutops hard. Finally, Aqua Jet provides a valuable priority STAB move, and allows Kabutops to pick off potential revenge killers, especially Mach Punch users. Aqua Jet also makes Kabutops more valuable outside of the rain, as frail revenge killers are often unable to take a +2 STAB Aqua Jet.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Maximum Attack and Speed are standard fare for a Swords Dance sweeper, as is a Life Orb. However, a Lum Berry can be used instead to prevent Kabutops from being crippled by a rogue Thunder Wave or Will-O-Wisp. Adamant vs Jolly is a matter of preference, a Jolly nature allows Kabutops to at least Speed tie opposing positive base 80s, while an Adamant nature could potentially allow Kabutops to score an important OHKO or 2HKO. X-Scissor allows Kabutops to strike down Uxie and Tangrowth, although Stone Edge deals almost as much damage to the aforementioned threats. Low Kick can be used instead of Superpower to avoid the unpleasant Attack and Defense drop, although Superpower deals more consistent damage. Rock Slide can be used if you're paranoid of Stone Edge misses, but the drop in power is very noticeable. Weak Armor can be used if your team does not carry a Rain Dance user, as it would allow Kabutops to outspeed and KO some potential revenge killers. Weak Armor also lessens the need for Aqua Jet, so Kabutops can opt for a coverage move instead. However, Kabutops is already prone to priority, and the Defense drop from Weak Armor will only exacerbate the problem.</p>
<p>With this set, Kabutops is finally reunited with its friends from that now off air hit TV show. Commonly seen alongside fellow Swift Swim sweepers, such as Ludicolo, Omastar, and Qwilfish, this big bad thug is ready to clean house. Another interesting teammate is Feraligatr, who makes a nice dance partner, as they can weaken each other's checks and counters and allow the other to sweep. Uxie can eliminate Fighting-types that try to knock out the speedster with Mach Punch, and can also set up rain with ease. Moltres can be used to eliminate the likes of Ferroseed and Tangrowth, but Moltres is pretty awful in the rain. Better methods for dealing with these Pokemon include Hariyama, Honchkrow, and Accelgor, the last of whom also sets up Spikes for Kabutops to score more KOs. Rotom is not quite as annoying, as Kabutops outspeeds it under the rain, but you should still carry a powerful Dark-type, such as Drapion or Honchkrow, in case your rain runs out prematurely.</p>
[SET]
name: Substitute + Swords Dance
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Swords Dance
item: Leftovers
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Jolly / Adamant
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Now, this set doesn't quite pack as much power as the offensive sweeper, but it is still a great late game cleaner in its own right. After a Swords Dance, very few Pokemon can stand up to its deluge of attacks. The drop in power is mitigated by Substitute, which not only shields Kabutops from status, but also protects it from potential revenge killers, especially Mach Punch users. It would be a shame if a +2, rain-backed Kabutops was picked off or forced out by a Mach Punch user wouldn't it? Moreover, Substitute significantly eases prediction and setup: simply come in against a Pokemon that has no business taking on Kabutops, such as Rhydon, hide behind the Substitute, and start gunning down any opponents that approach it. Waterfall and Stone Edge remain the STAB moves of choice, and offer Kabutops great coverage to abuse its sky high Attack.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Maximum Attack and Speed investment as per usual to get the most out of this powerful sweeper. Leftovers is the ideal item, as Kabutops isn't particularly bulky, and the loss in HP from Substitute isn't helping one bit. Leftovers also allows Kabutops to get up more Substitutes throughout the match. Superpower is a viable option for dealing with Ferroseed, as is X-Scissor for Tangrowth. However, neither of these moves are a better fit than Waterfall or Stone Edge, which offer better coverage and power. Rock Slide can be used in place of Stone Edge to avoid the accuracy problems; however, that extra power will be dearly missed. Aqua Jet can be used in place of Waterfall, but keep in mind that Substitute already protects Kabutops from most revenge killers.</p>
<p>Without Aqua Jet, Kabutops needs rain support more than ever to avoid being outsped by anything above base 80 Speed. Uxie is one of the best Rain Dance setters in the tier, and also happens to set up Stealth Rock and take Mach Punches aimed at Kabutops. Fellow Swift Swim sweeper Ludicolo is another excellent option for conjuring precipitation. Fighting-types, such as Medicham and Primeape, are excellent choices for disposing of Ferroseed, whereas Bug-types, such as Accelgor (who also happens to set up Spikes), are great for beating down Tangrowth. Pokemon such as Feraligatr, Samurott, and Crawdaunt make great teammates, as they share similar checks and counters, which one could weaken so the other can eventually break through.</p>
[SET]
name: Support
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Rapid Spin
move 3: Waterfall
move 4: Toxic / Foresight
item: Leftovers
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Impish
evs: 252 HP / 72 Def / 184 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Unlike previous sets, this set takes a more defensive approach. Rather than blow past opposing walls with its tremendous Attack, this set utilizes Kabutops's underrated bulk to set up Stealth Rock as well as clear hazards from your own side of the field. At first glance, Omastar seems like a more logical choice in a defensive role, but Kabutops has one asset that Omastar would die for: Rapid Spin. Additionally, this offers the element of surprise, as a support set would certainly surprise an opponent expecting a powerful set-up sweeper. Waterfall is Kabutops's most reliable and consistent STAB move, and is often chosen as the only offensive move. In the final slot, Toxic can be used to cripple the likes of Poliwrath and Tangrowth who come in expecting to wall the Swords Dance sweeper cold. Foresight is another viable option to ensure that Kabutops will purge the field of hazards.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The given EVs allows Kabutops to get the jump on big bad Honchkrow and either cripple it with Toxic or smack it with Waterfall. HP is maxed out to give Kabutops maximal overall bulk, and the remaining EVs are dumped into Defense, which brings Kabutops's physical bulk to respectable levels. Stone Edge can be used instead as the sole STAB move, but Waterfall is generally superior. Should another Pokemon already be carrying Stealth Rock or Rapid Spin though, Stone Edge could serve as a useful secondary STAB. X-Scissor can be used for Grass-types, such as Tangrowth, but Toxic usually works better anyway. Aqua Jet can be used to pick off fast, frail Pokemon, although the lack of power is alarming. Finally, Kabutops can opt for Rest, as it is its only form of recovery. Unfortunately, 4 moveslot syndrome, combined with the risks of using Rest thanks to Fifth Generation sleep mechanics, makes this an undesirable option.</p>
<p>Offensive Pokemon that fear Stealth Rock, such as Moltres, Scyther, and Honchkrow, enjoy Kabutops's presence. Not only can it help the aforementioned Pokemon safely enter the field, it can also set up Stealth Rock to help them score KOs. Uxie remains an excellent teammate for reasons already stated, and can also set up Stealth Rock to free up a moveslot on Kabutops. Spinblockers, such as Cofagrigus and Rotom, are quite annoying, as this set lacks the power to break through them. A powerful Dark-type, such as Drapion or Honchkrow, can be used to take them out. Ironically, these eerie apparitions also happen to make nice teammates, as they can take Fighting-type moves aimed at Kabutops and keep Stealth Rock on the field.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Rain Dance can be used as a "4-turn Rock Polish" on any of Kabutops's sets, but you're better off employing a teammate to set up rain. Rock Polish can, of course, be used in lieu of Rain Dance, although Rain Dance is generally a much better option for boosting Speed due to the buff to Water-type Attacks, even though it is not permanent. A Splash Plate can be used instead to boost the power of Aqua Jet, and with 132 Attack EVs and an Adamant nature, guarantees an OHKO on Moltres after Stealth Rock. Unfortunately, this serves no other purpose. Knock Off can surprise opponents and potentially cripple an item dependent Pokemon, but lacks the coverage, power, or utility of the main options. Finally, Weak Armor can be used if Kabutops lacks rain support, as it can come in against a non-threatening attack, such as Entei's Flare Blitz, and grab a free Speed boost. However, the drop in Defense is bothersome and makes Kabutops even more prone to priority and revenge killers, so Swift Swim is usually the better and more consistent ability.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>The friendly ghost inside everybody's TV, Rotom, is Kabutops's sworn enemy. Not only can it prevent Kabutops from disposing of entry hazards, it outspeeds Kabutops outside of the rain and KOes it with an Electric STAB. Tangrowth and Poliwrath wall any offensive set and can crush Kabutops with a Grass or Fighting STAB respectively. Ferroseed also happens to wall variants that lack Superpower, but can't do much damage in return, relying on the combination of Leech Seed and Protect. However, do be aware that some Ferroseed carry Seed Bomb and can easily blow Kabutops to the afterlife. Similarly, Qwilfish can wall Kabutops, but can't do much in return besides set up Spikes. The best way to deal with Kabutops, though, is to gun it down with Mach Punch as it stares you down at +2 backed by rain. Even though some variants carry Aqua Jet, a +2 Aqua Jet is simply not as powerful as a +2 Waterfall, while a super effective Mach Punch can pulverize Kabutops with ease. Also, if the rain ends, or is not set up in the first place, Kabutops becomes very vulnerable to revenge killers. Base 80 Speed isn't exactly godly, and numerous Pokemon can outspeed and KO it even without a Choice Scarf.</p>
GP Checks: Moo, Ritter
[Overview]
<p>During the early Black and White OU era, Kabutops was at its zenith. It had just acquired the perfect teammate in Politoed, and together with its fellow Swift Swim users, they began a journey to become the very best. Unfortunately, all fairy tales must come to an end, and the show "Politoed and the Swift Swim Buddies" was banned, deemed inappropriate for younger viewers such as Mew. It was a sad day for everyone; the cast and crew said their goodbyes and each went about their own journeys. Politoed and Kingdra both went on to become famous stars in their respective tiers, but Kabutops began to slit its wrists in order to escape reality. It soon became evident that an intervention was necessary, and it was decided that Kabutops needed a change in scenery. Old friends and rivals alike, such as Ludicolo and Omastar, invited Kabutops to try out for an all new show "Black and White RU," and with that, a new saga began.</p>
<p>In the series premiere, Kabutops proved itself a force to be reckoned with. With a Swords Dance boost and rain support, it could chop down entire jungles (although in a future episode, Mojombo King Tangrowth would prove too powerful an adversary). Even without rain support, Kabutops proved its worth as a vicious sweeper, as a +2 Waterfall or Stone Edge is nothing to scoff at. In times of desperation, Kabutops would selflessly help its team with Rapid Spin or Stealth Rock, as opposing spinners and spinblockers are hard pressed to switch into it. So how will this drama end? Tune in to this analysis to find out more.</p>
[SET]
name: Offensive Spinner
move 1: Rapid Spin
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Swords Dance / Foresight
item: Life Orb
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Jolly / Adamant
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Kabutops is quite the formidable sweeper, especially under the rain, so Ghost-types will be wary of switching in, as they do not want to eat a +2 Waterfall or Stone Edge. This mutated horseshoe crab can use this to its advantage and pull off a spin in the hazard infested RU tier. Rapid Spin is, of course, the most important move on this set, and is the weapon (no, it's not the scythes) that sets Kabutops apart from the crowd. Waterfall is its main STAB, and can puncture some of the bulkiest of walls when backed by the downpour of rain. Stone Edge, while frustratingly inaccurate, provides excellent coverage and power. Foresight guarantees Kabutops a successful spin regardless of opposing Ghost-types, although Swords Dance is preferred because a +2 Kabutops can plow through most spinblockers anyway. Furthermore, Kabutops can send a few other Pokemon to the afterlife after it has cleaned those annoying Rocks and Spikes off the stage.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Maximum Speed and Attack investment works best for janitorial service, while the choice of nature depends on preference. A Jolly nature allows Kabutops to outpace neutral natured base 90s, as well as Speed-tie opposing base 80s, whereas an Adamant nature allows Kabutops to sharpen its blades even more. Aqua Jet can be used in place of Waterfall as a priority STAB move. However, this is inadvisable, as Waterfall is Kabutops's most reliable STAB move. Night Slash can be used to hit Ghost-types, although a super effective Night Slash does less damage than a neutral Stone Edge. Hone Claws can be used to mitigate Stone Edge's atrocious accuracy, although more often than not, Kabutops will find itself using Waterfall, and the drop in power from losing Swords Dance is very noticeable. Similarly, Rock Slide can be used instead of Stone Edge for improved accuracy; however, it's accuracy is not perfect either, and the significant loss of power usually isn't worth it. If opting not to run rain support, Weak Armor can be used instead, as Kabutops can grab a free Speed boost when hit by a physical move, which allows it to outspeed most of the unboosted tier. However, keep in mind that many Choice Scarf users have above base 80 Speed and will outspeed and KO Kabutops regardless; the drop in Defense certainly wont help with this either.</p>
<p>Pokemon that appreciate the field being cleared of entry hazards, such as Moltres and Scyther, enjoy Kabutops's presence. Moltres also happens to be able to burn down the likes of Ferroseed and Tangrowth, who wall Kabutops hard. Fighting-types such as Hitmonlee and Medicham are also helpful for taking out Ferroseed. However, the most important thing of all is to get rid of Kabutops's sworn enemy, Rotom. Not only does this Beyblade-esque Ghost block Rapid Spin, it can also outspeed Kabutops outside of the rain and fire off a powerful Electric STAB attack. Like with any other Rapid Spinner, a Pursuit trapper, such as Spiritomb or Absol, would do well alongside the rain assassin. Finally, Kabutops gets absolutely dominated by Mach Punch users, and is walled by bulky Waters, such as Poliwrath and Qwilfish. A Psychic-type, such as Uxie, can easily take hits for Kabutops and dispose of these threats. Uxie also doubles as a Rain Dance user, making Kabutops all the more threatening.</p>
[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Aqua Jet / Superpower
item: Life Orb
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Jolly / Adamant
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Unlike the Rapid Spin sets, this set focuses solely on shredding through entire teams. Swords Dance is Kabutops's call of war; at +2, very few Pokemon can stand up to its deadly STAB moves. With rain up, it becomes even more difficult to contain this assailant's rage. Simply bring it in against a non-threatening Pokemon such as Entei, set up, sit back, and watch the show. Waterfall is the main STAB move, which when backed by rain, allows Kabutops to blast through any Pokemon that does not resist it. Stone Edge brings some much needed coverage, along with some much unneeded unreliability, but that's a story for another day. Superpower allows Kabutops to dispose of Ferroseed, who otherwise walls Kabutops hard. Finally, Aqua Jet provides a valuable priority STAB move, and allows Kabutops to pick off potential revenge killers, especially Mach Punch users. Aqua Jet also makes Kabutops more valuable outside of the rain, as frail revenge killers are often unable to take a +2 STAB Aqua Jet.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Maximum Attack and Speed are standard fare for a Swords Dance sweeper, as is a Life Orb. However, a Lum Berry can be used instead to prevent Kabutops from being crippled by a rogue Thunder Wave or Will-O-Wisp. Adamant vs Jolly is a matter of preference, a Jolly nature allows Kabutops to at least Speed tie opposing positive base 80s, while an Adamant nature could potentially allow Kabutops to score an important OHKO or 2HKO. X-Scissor allows Kabutops to strike down Uxie and Tangrowth, although Stone Edge deals almost as much damage to the aforementioned threats. Low Kick can be used instead of Superpower to avoid the unpleasant Attack and Defense drop, although Superpower deals more consistent damage. Rock Slide can be used if you're paranoid of Stone Edge misses, but the drop in power is very noticeable. Weak Armor can be used if your team does not carry a Rain Dance user, as it would allow Kabutops to outspeed and KO some potential revenge killers. Weak Armor also lessens the need for Aqua Jet, so Kabutops can opt for a coverage move instead. However, Kabutops is already prone to priority, and the Defense drop from Weak Armor will only exacerbate the problem.</p>
<p>With this set, Kabutops is finally reunited with its friends from that now off air hit TV show. Commonly seen alongside fellow Swift Swim sweepers, such as Ludicolo, Omastar, and Qwilfish, this big bad thug is ready to clean house. Another interesting teammate is Feraligatr, who makes a nice dance partner, as they can weaken each other's checks and counters and allow the other to sweep. Uxie can eliminate Fighting-types that try to knock out the speedster with Mach Punch, and can also set up rain with ease. Moltres can be used to eliminate the likes of Ferroseed and Tangrowth, but Moltres is pretty awful in the rain. Better methods for dealing with these Pokemon include Hariyama, Honchkrow, and Accelgor, the last of whom also sets up Spikes for Kabutops to score more KOs. Rotom is not quite as annoying, as Kabutops outspeeds it under the rain, but you should still carry a powerful Dark-type, such as Drapion or Honchkrow, in case your rain runs out prematurely.</p>
[SET]
name: Substitute + Swords Dance
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Swords Dance
item: Leftovers
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Jolly / Adamant
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Now, this set doesn't quite pack as much power as the offensive sweeper, but it is still a great late game cleaner in its own right. After a Swords Dance, very few Pokemon can stand up to its deluge of attacks. The drop in power is mitigated by Substitute, which not only shields Kabutops from status, but also protects it from potential revenge killers, especially Mach Punch users. It would be a shame if a +2, rain-backed Kabutops was picked off or forced out by a Mach Punch user wouldn't it? Moreover, Substitute significantly eases prediction and setup: simply come in against a Pokemon that has no business taking on Kabutops, such as Rhydon, hide behind the Substitute, and start gunning down any opponents that approach it. Waterfall and Stone Edge remain the STAB moves of choice, and offer Kabutops great coverage to abuse its sky high Attack.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Maximum Attack and Speed investment as per usual to get the most out of this powerful sweeper. Leftovers is the ideal item, as Kabutops isn't particularly bulky, and the loss in HP from Substitute isn't helping one bit. Leftovers also allows Kabutops to get up more Substitutes throughout the match. Superpower is a viable option for dealing with Ferroseed, as is X-Scissor for Tangrowth. However, neither of these moves are a better fit than Waterfall or Stone Edge, which offer better coverage and power. Rock Slide can be used in place of Stone Edge to avoid the accuracy problems; however, that extra power will be dearly missed. Aqua Jet can be used in place of Waterfall, but keep in mind that Substitute already protects Kabutops from most revenge killers.</p>
<p>Without Aqua Jet, Kabutops needs rain support more than ever to avoid being outsped by anything above base 80 Speed. Uxie is one of the best Rain Dance setters in the tier, and also happens to set up Stealth Rock and take Mach Punches aimed at Kabutops. Fellow Swift Swim sweeper Ludicolo is another excellent option for conjuring precipitation. Fighting-types, such as Medicham and Primeape, are excellent choices for disposing of Ferroseed, whereas Bug-types, such as Accelgor (who also happens to set up Spikes), are great for beating down Tangrowth. Pokemon such as Feraligatr, Samurott, and Crawdaunt make great teammates, as they share similar checks and counters, which one could weaken so the other can eventually break through.</p>
[SET]
name: Support
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Rapid Spin
move 3: Waterfall
move 4: Toxic / Foresight
item: Leftovers
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Impish
evs: 252 HP / 72 Def / 184 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Unlike previous sets, this set takes a more defensive approach. Rather than blow past opposing walls with its tremendous Attack, this set utilizes Kabutops's underrated bulk to set up Stealth Rock as well as clear hazards from your own side of the field. At first glance, Omastar seems like a more logical choice in a defensive role, but Kabutops has one asset that Omastar would die for: Rapid Spin. Additionally, this offers the element of surprise, as a support set would certainly surprise an opponent expecting a powerful set-up sweeper. Waterfall is Kabutops's most reliable and consistent STAB move, and is often chosen as the only offensive move. In the final slot, Toxic can be used to cripple the likes of Poliwrath and Tangrowth who come in expecting to wall the Swords Dance sweeper cold. Foresight is another viable option to ensure that Kabutops will purge the field of hazards.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The given EVs allows Kabutops to get the jump on big bad Honchkrow and either cripple it with Toxic or smack it with Waterfall. HP is maxed out to give Kabutops maximal overall bulk, and the remaining EVs are dumped into Defense, which brings Kabutops's physical bulk to respectable levels. Stone Edge can be used instead as the sole STAB move, but Waterfall is generally superior. Should another Pokemon already be carrying Stealth Rock or Rapid Spin though, Stone Edge could serve as a useful secondary STAB. X-Scissor can be used for Grass-types, such as Tangrowth, but Toxic usually works better anyway. Aqua Jet can be used to pick off fast, frail Pokemon, although the lack of power is alarming. Finally, Kabutops can opt for Rest, as it is its only form of recovery. Unfortunately, 4 moveslot syndrome, combined with the risks of using Rest thanks to Fifth Generation sleep mechanics, makes this an undesirable option.</p>
<p>Offensive Pokemon that fear Stealth Rock, such as Moltres, Scyther, and Honchkrow, enjoy Kabutops's presence. Not only can it help the aforementioned Pokemon safely enter the field, it can also set up Stealth Rock to help them score KOs. Uxie remains an excellent teammate for reasons already stated, and can also set up Stealth Rock to free up a moveslot on Kabutops. Spinblockers, such as Cofagrigus and Rotom, are quite annoying, as this set lacks the power to break through them. A powerful Dark-type, such as Drapion or Honchkrow, can be used to take them out. Ironically, these eerie apparitions also happen to make nice teammates, as they can take Fighting-type moves aimed at Kabutops and keep Stealth Rock on the field.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Rain Dance can be used as a "4-turn Rock Polish" on any of Kabutops's sets, but you're better off employing a teammate to set up rain. Rock Polish can, of course, be used in lieu of Rain Dance, although Rain Dance is generally a much better option for boosting Speed due to the buff to Water-type Attacks, even though it is not permanent. A Splash Plate can be used instead to boost the power of Aqua Jet, and with 132 Attack EVs and an Adamant nature, guarantees an OHKO on Moltres after Stealth Rock. Unfortunately, this serves no other purpose. Knock Off can surprise opponents and potentially cripple an item dependent Pokemon, but lacks the coverage, power, or utility of the main options. Finally, Weak Armor can be used if Kabutops lacks rain support, as it can come in against a non-threatening attack, such as Entei's Flare Blitz, and grab a free Speed boost. However, the drop in Defense is bothersome and makes Kabutops even more prone to priority and revenge killers, so Swift Swim is usually the better and more consistent ability.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>The friendly ghost inside everybody's TV, Rotom, is Kabutops's sworn enemy. Not only can it prevent Kabutops from disposing of entry hazards, it outspeeds Kabutops outside of the rain and KOes it with an Electric STAB. Tangrowth and Poliwrath wall any offensive set and can crush Kabutops with a Grass or Fighting STAB respectively. Ferroseed also happens to wall variants that lack Superpower, but can't do much damage in return, relying on the combination of Leech Seed and Protect. However, do be aware that some Ferroseed carry Seed Bomb and can easily blow Kabutops to the afterlife. Similarly, Qwilfish can wall Kabutops, but can't do much in return besides set up Spikes. The best way to deal with Kabutops, though, is to gun it down with Mach Punch as it stares you down at +2 backed by rain. Even though some variants carry Aqua Jet, a +2 Aqua Jet is simply not as powerful as a +2 Waterfall, while a super effective Mach Punch can pulverize Kabutops with ease. Also, if the rain ends, or is not set up in the first place, Kabutops becomes very vulnerable to revenge killers. Base 80 Speed isn't exactly godly, and numerous Pokemon can outspeed and KO it even without a Choice Scarf.</p>
