LC Sandshrew

[doomsday doink]

Overview
########

Sandshrew has good physical bulk and Attack, along with access to Rapid Spin and Knock Off, both of which are fantastic support moves. However, besides its superior Defense stat and access to Knock Off, Sandshrew is mostly outclassed by Drilbur, which has mostly superior stats and a better ability in Mold Breaker. Sandshrew is also easily worn down due to its lack of recovery and mediocre base 30 Special Defense. Also, due to the removal of permanent weather, Sandshrew loses its previous niche as a sand sweeper, limiting its capabilities to that of a defensive support Pokemon. Although Sandshrew is outclassed in quite a few areas, it is still a solid choice on any bulky balance team.

Rapid Spin
########
name: Rapid Spin
move 1: Rapid Spin
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Stealth Rock / Rock Slide
item: Eviolite
ability: Sand Rush
evs: 116 HP / 156 Atk / 156 Def / 36 SpD / 36 Spe
nature: Impish

Moves
========

Rapid Spin allows Sandshrew to aid its teammates by removing hazards. Earthquake is Sandshrew's STAB move of choice, hitting a lot of Pokemon quite hard. Knock Off is a great utility option, hitting Ghost-types that try to spinblock, notably Pumpkaboo, a Pokemon that Drilbur cannot heavily damage. It also removes opposing Eviolites, Choice Scarves, and Berry Juices, making walls and sweepers easier to deal with. Stealth Rock is a fantastic move; Sandshrew's more offensive teammates can benefit from foes being weakened by it. Rock Slide can be used over Stealth Rock if your team already has a hazard setter, allowing Sandshrew to hit Larvesta, Flying-types, and Ice-types.

Set Details
========

The EVs provide Sandshrew with lots of bulk, hitting 23 / 18 / 10 before Eviolite, with the remaining EVs being invested in Attack and Speed, hitting 16 Attack and 11 Speed, to let Sandshrew outspeed Pokemon such as Timburr and Pumpkaboo. Eviolite boosts Sandshrew's bulk and works well with the EVs, which make Sandshrew's Defense and Special Defense even numbers. Sandshrew's abilities rather contradict its role, but if the opponent uses a sand team, Sandshrew becomes blisteringly fast thanks to Sand Rush.

Usage Tips
========

Sandshrew's impressive Defense stat allows it to switch into a majority of non-super effective physical moves; take advantage of this, setting up Stealth Rock or removing hazards with Rapid Spin while the foe switches out. If Stealth Rock is used over Rock Slide, be wary of Fletchling, as it is immune to Earthquake and lacks an item, weakening Knock Off's power. Although Stealth Rock and Rapid Spin are great moves, they make Sandshrew rather predictable, as it'll either lead or switch in shortly after the opponent sets hazards; be sure to play smartly with Sandshrew, for example nailing the obvious Pumpkaboo switch-in with a Knock Off as opposed to simply using Rapid Spin.

Team Options
========

Sandshrew pairs well with Fire-, Flying-, and Bug-types, as it can remove Stealth Rock from the field. Spikes users, such as Trubbish and Ferroseed, can partner with Sandshrew to form an effective hazard-setting core. Ferroseed, in particular, can handle the Water- and Grass-type attacks aimed at Sandshrew. Pumpkaboo can spinblock, keeping Sandshrew's Stealth Rock on the field; it also resists Water- and Grass-types attacks aimed at Sandshrew. Pawniard deters Defog users, as its ability, Defiant, gives it a large Attack boost when hit by Defog. Clerics such as Spritzee and Lickitung can compensate for Sandshrew's lack of recovery, providing it with Wish and Heal Bell / Aromatherapy support. RestTalk Munchlax can handle Foongus and special Water-types, all while absorbing status, particularly burn, that Sandshrew doesn't appreciate.

Other Options
########

Due to Sandshrew's already-impressive bulk, Eviolite can be opted out for Berry Juice, providing Sandshrew with a form of recovery; however, Sandshrew's subsequent lack of special bulk is quite noticeable, and its ability to soak up hits is diminished quite a bit. RestTalk is Eviolite Sandshrew's only reliable method of recovery, but Sandshrew lacks the resistances to properly take advantage of such a set. A fully offensive Sand Rush set can be utilized in tandem with Hippopotas, allowing Sandshrew to utilize its good Attack stat and coverage moves to sweep an opposing team. Sand Veil is an option should Sandshrew's potential Speed boost with Sand Rush not be sufficient, letting Sandshrew occasionally dodge an incoming hit while sand is up. Rock Tomb can be used over Rock Slide, allowing Sandshrew to better follow up on certain switch-ins; however, Rock Tomb fails to OHKO Fletchling after Stealth Rock. Sandshrew can make good use of a Swords Dance set, OHKOing Pumpkaboo with Knock Off at +2. Poison Jab is a solid means of dealing with Fairy-types, notably Cottonee, and spreading poison around the opposing team. Sandshrew can utilize Counter thanks to its fantastic physical bulk, but the move usually ends up wasting a moveslot and is a gimmick more than anything else.

Checks & Counters
########

**Ghost-types**: Ghost-types such as Gastly and Pumpkaboo can switch into an Earthquake or Rapid Spin with ease; however, none of them want to take a Knock Off.

**Special Attackers**: Powerful special attackers such as Abra and Omanyte can easily KO Sandshrew with Energy Ball and Hydro Pump, respectively.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types resist Sandshrew's Earthquake; furthermore, as most Grass-types are special attackers, they can KO Sandshrew with Giga Drain or Energy Ball.

**Water-types**: Although most Water-types don't resist Sandshrew's Earthquake, many of them are specially-oriented and so are able to KO Sandshrew with Scald, Surf, or Hydro Pump.

**Burn**: Burn renders Sandshrew almost useless outside of being a utility Pokemon, halving its Attack stat; it also lacks recovery, so the chip damage from burn is quite threatening.

**Hazard Removers**: Defog and Rapid Spin users, such as Vullaby, Staryu, and Drilbur, can usually cause some trouble for Sandshrew, being able to remove its Stealth Rock with ease; Staryu in particular can be an issue for Sandshrew, as it is able to KO it in addition to removing hazards.

 

[Corporal Levi]

Overview:
Mention that Sandshrew is easily worn down.
Mention that Sandshrew's main niches over Drilbur are greater physical bulk and, more importantly, Knock Off.

Moves:
Rock Slide also hits Larvesta.

Set Details:
Specify that 23/18/10 is hit before Eviolite.

Other Options:
Mention that Rest + Sleep Talk is Eviolite Sandshrew's only reliable method of recovery, but that Sandshrew lacks the resistances to properly take advantage of such a set.
Mention that Rock Tomb can be used instead as a coverage move to help Sandshrew better follow up on certain switch-ins, but that it fails to OHKO Fletchling after Stealth Rock.

well done
QC 1/3

 

[doomsday doink]

Overview:
Mention that Sandshrew is easily worn down.
Mention that Sandshrew's main niches over Drilbur are greater physical bulk and, more importantly, Knock Off.

Moves:
Rock Slide also hits Larvesta.

Set Details:
Specify that 23/18/10 is hit before Eviolite.

Other Options:
Mention that Rest + Sleep Talk is Eviolite Sandshrew's only reliable method of recovery, but that Sandshrew lacks the resistances to properly take advantage of such a set.
Mention that Rock Tomb can be used instead as a coverage move to help Sandshrew better follow up on certain switch-ins, but that it fails to OHKO Fletchling after Stealth Rock.

well done
QC 1/3

Implemented, thanks

 

[zeriloa]

in team options mention that ferroseed can take on water/grass-types for shrew, also mention resttalk munchlax because it can beat foongus/special water types and absorb status which shrew hates (mainly burns). in OO mention swords dance alongside a spread with max attack to ohko pumpkaboo at +2 with knock off (which is why you would use it over sd drilbur). poison jab can go in OO too i guess. in C&C note that this thing really hates getting burned, as it has no recovery and loses all its offensive presence.
good work, 2/3

 

[Yagura]

First QC stuff o:

Moves: You're saying that "Knock Off is a great utility option, hitting Ghost-types who try to spinblock, notably Pumpkaboo, a Pokemon that Drilbur cannot hit" actually Drilbur can actually hit it with all of its attacks but they aren't very effective on it so it'll be better to use the word "hurt" or just say "hit effectively", you can also mention how Knock Off makes Sandshrew preform its supporting role even better as it removes Eviolites and other items which really helps its teammates.

Set Details: Sandshrew actually hits 16 in Attack with that spread.

Team Options: Mention that Pumpkaboo also resists Water- and Grass-type attacks that are aimed at Sandshrew. Also, mention both Heal Bell and Aromatherapy when you're talking about Spritzee and Lickitung as Spritzee gets the latter.

Other Options: Mention Counter and how it's usable thanks to Sandshrew's nice physical bulk.

Do that and QC 3/3, good job =)

 

[doomsday doink]

in team options mention that ferroseed can take on water/grass-types for shrew, also mention resttalk munchlax because it can beat foongus/special water types and absorb status which shrew hates (mainly burns). in OO mention swords dance alongside a spread with max attack to ohko pumpkaboo at +2 with knock off (which is why you would use it over sd drilbur). poison jab can go in OO too i guess. in C&C note that this thing really hates getting burned, as it has no recovery and loses all its offensive presence.
good work, 2/3

First QC stuff o:

Moves: You're saying that "Knock Off is a great utility option, hitting Ghost-types who try to spinblock, notably Pumpkaboo, a Pokemon that Drilbur cannot hit" actually Drilbur can actually hit it with all of its attacks but they aren't very effective on it so it'll be better to use the word "hurt" or just say "hit effectively", you can also mention how Knock Off makes Sandshrew preform its supporting role even better as it removes Eviolites and other items which really helps its teammates.

Set Details: Sandshrew actually hits 16 in Attack with that spread.

Team Options: Mention that Pumpkaboo also resists Water- and Grass-type attacks that are aimed at Sandshrew. Also, mention both Heal Bell and Aromatherapy when you're talking about Spritzee and Lickitung as Spritzee gets the latter.

Other Options: Mention Counter and how it's usable thanks to Sandshrew's nice physical bulk.

Do that and QC 3/3, good job =)

Implented both of these, will write up later tonight.

 

[Aerow]

I just wanna say that I have used Berry Juice Sandshrew for a while now with great success (and have seen others do too). Its great physical bulk allows it to take on most physical attackers still fairly easily even without Eviolite, and Berry Juice gives Sandshrew important recovery. Special attacks is a bit more troublesome, but Sandshrew doesn't enjoy staying in against Special Attackers even with Eviolite. Berry Juice is in my opinion clearly worth a slash. But yea, on more defensive teams where Sandshrew really shines, Eviolite is really nice together with Wish support.

 

[Goddess Briyella]

Final QC Approved

 

[fleurdyleurse]

hi

check

Overview
########

Sandshrew has good physical bulk and Attack, along with access to Rapid Spin and Knock Off, both of which are fantastic support moves. However, besides its superior Defense stat and access to Knock Off, Sandshrew is mostly outclassed by Drilbur, which has mostly superior stats and a better ability, in Mold Breaker. Sandshrew is also easily worn down due to its lack of recovery and has a rather mediocre base 30 Special Defense stat. Also, due to the removal of permanent weather, Sandshrew's main loses its previous niche from last generation no long a sand sweeper exists, limiting its capabilities to that of a defensive support Pokemon. Although Sandshrew is outclassed in quite a few areas, it is still a solid choice on any bulky balance team.

Rapid Spin
########
name: Rapid Spin
move 1: Rapid Spin
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Stealth Rock / Rock Slide
item: Eviolite
ability: Sand Rush
evs: 116 HP / 156 Atk / 156 Def / 36 SpD / 36 Spe
nature: Impish

Moves
========

Rapid Spin removes hazards, allowings Sandshrew to aid its teammates by removing entry hazards. Earthquake is Sandshrew's STAB move of choice, hitting a lot of Pokemon quite hard. Knock Off is a great utility option, hitting Ghost-types whothat try to spinblock, notably Pumpkaboo, a Pokemon that Drilbur cannot hit for goodeavily damage. It also removes opposing Eviolites, Choice Scarves, and Berry Juices, softenmaking up walls and neutering sweepers easier to deal with. Stealth Rock is a fantastic move and; Sandshrew's more offensive teammates can benefit from foes being weakened by it. Rock Slide can be used over Stealth Rock if one'syour team already has a hazard setter, allowing Sandshrew to hit Larvesta, Flying-types, and the rare Ice-types.

Set Details
========

The EVs provide Sandshrew with lots of bulk, hitting 23/18/10 before Eviolite, with the remaining EVs being invested in Attack and Speed, hitting 16 Attack and 11 Speed, to outspeed-creep Pokemon, such as Timburr and Pumpkaboo. Eviolite provideboosts Sandshrew with a lot of added's bulk and gels nicelyworks well with the EVs, as they putwhich make Sandshrew's Defense and Special Defense at even numbers. Sandshrew's abilities rather contradict its role, but if the opponent brings Suses a sand team, Sandshrew will hit 22 Speed, becoming ae blisteringly fast support Pokemonthanks to Sand Rush.

Usage Tips
========

Sandshrew's impressive Defense stat allows it to switch into a majority of non-super effective physical moves; take advantage of this, setting up Stealth Rock or Rapid Spinnremoving hazards away,with Rapid Spin while the opponentfoe switches out. If Stealth Rock is uselected over Rock Slide, be awarey of Fletchling, as it is immune to Earthquake and lacks an item, weakening Knock Off's power. Although Stealth Rock and Rapid Spin are great moves, they make Sandshrew rather predictable, as it'll either lead or switch in shortly after the opponent sets hazards; be sure to play smartly with Sandshrew, perhaps nailing the obvious Pumpkaboo switch-in with a Knock Off as opposed to simply using Rapid Spinning.

Team Options
========

Sandshrew pairs well with Fire-, Flying-, and Bug-types, as it can remove Stealth Rock from the field. Spike-stacking Pokemons users, such as Trubbish and Ferroseed, can partner with Sandshrew to form an effective hazard-setting core. Ferroseed, in particular, can handle the Water- and Grass-type attacks aimed at Sandshrew. Pumpkaboo can spinblock, keeping Sandshrew's Stealth Rock on the field; it also resists Water- and Grass-types attacks aimed at Sandshrew. Pawniard deters Defog- users, as its ability, Defiant, gives it a large Attack boost due to the evasion dropwhen hit by Defog. Clerics, such as Spritzee and Lickitung, can compensate for Sandshrew's lack of recovery, passing Wish and Heal Bell / Aromatherapy to the Ground-typesupport to it. RestTalk Munchlax can handle Foongus and special-attacking Water-types, all while absorbing status, specificalparticularly burn, that Sandshrew doesn't appreciate.

Other Options
########

Due to Sandshrew's already-impressive bulk, Eviolite can be opted out for Berry Juice, providing Sandshrew with a form of recovery; however, the lack of bulk on the special side is quite noticeable and Sandshrew's ability to soak up hits gets neutered quite a bit. Rest + Sleep Talk is Eviolite Sandshrew's only reliable method of recovery, but Sandshrew lacks the resistances to properly take advantage of this set. A fully offensive Sand Rush set can be utilized in tandem with Hippopotas, allowing Sandshrew to abusutilize its good Attack stat and coverage moves to sweep an opposing team. Sand Veil is an option should Sandshrew's potential sSpeed boost with Sand Rush not be sufficient, letting Sandshrew occasionally dodge an incoming hit while Ssand is up. Rock Tomb can be used as coverage instead of Rock Slide, allowing Sandshrew to better follow up on certain switch-ins; however this, Rock Tomb fails to OHKO Fletchling after Stealth Rock. Sandshrew can make good use of a Swords Dance set, OHKOing Pumpkaboo with a +2 Knock Off. Poison Jab is a solid means of dealing with Fairy-types, specificalnotably Cottonee, and spreading poison around the opposing team. Sandshrew can utilize Counter duethanks to its fantastic physical bulk, but it usually ends up wasting a moveslot and is a gimmick more than anything else.

Checks & Counters
########

**Ghost-types**: Ghost-types such as Gastly and Pumpkaboo can switch into an Earthquake or Rapid Spin with ease; however, neither of them want to take a Knock Off.

**Special Attackers**: Powerful special attackers, such as Abra and Omanyte, can easily KO Sandshrew with moves such as Energy Ball and Hydro Pump, respectively.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types resist Sandshrew's Earthquake and; furthermore, asince most Grass-types are special attackers, they can KO Sandshrew with Giga Drain or Energy Ball.

**Water-types**: Although Water-types don't usually resist Sandshrew's Earthquake, most of them are specially-oriented with thand so are abilityle to KO Sandshrew with Scald, Surf, or Hydro Pump.

**Burn status**: If Sandshrew is bBurned it loses all of its offensive presence, rendering it renders Sandshrew almost useless outside of being a utility Pokemon, halving its Attack stat; it also lacks recovery, so the chip damage from burn is quite threatening.

**Hazard Removers**: Defoggers and Rapid Spinn users, such as Vullaby, Staryu, and Drilbur, can usually cause some trouble for Sandshrew, being able to remove its Stealth Rocks with ease; Staryu, in particular, can be an issue for Sandshrew, as it is a special-attackable to KO it in addition to removing Water-typeits hazards.

GP 1/2

 

[doomsday doink]

hi

check

Overview
########

Sandshrew has good physical bulk and Attack, along with access to Rapid Spin and Knock Off, both of which are fantastic support moves. However, besides its superior Defense stat and access to Knock Off, Sandshrew is mostly outclassed by Drilbur, which has mostly superior stats and a better ability, in Mold Breaker. Sandshrew is also easily worn down due to its lack of recovery and has a rather mediocre base 30 Special Defense stat. Also, due to the removal of permanent weather, Sandshrew's main loses its previous niche from last generation no long a sand sweeper exists, limiting its capabilities to that of a defensive support Pokemon. Although Sandshrew is outclassed in quite a few areas, it is still a solid choice on any bulky balance team.

Rapid Spin
########
name: Rapid Spin
move 1: Rapid Spin
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Stealth Rock / Rock Slide
item: Eviolite
ability: Sand Rush
evs: 116 HP / 156 Atk / 156 Def / 36 SpD / 36 Spe
nature: Impish

Moves
========

Rapid Spin removes hazards, allowings Sandshrew to aid its teammates by removing entry hazards. Earthquake is Sandshrew's STAB move of choice, hitting a lot of Pokemon quite hard. Knock Off is a great utility option, hitting Ghost-types whothat try to spinblock, notably Pumpkaboo, a Pokemon that Drilbur cannot hit for goodeavily damage. It also removes opposing Eviolites, Choice Scarves, and Berry Juices, softenmaking up walls and neutering sweepers easier to deal with. Stealth Rock is a fantastic move and; Sandshrew's more offensive teammates can benefit from foes being weakened by it. Rock Slide can be used over Stealth Rock if one'syour team already has a hazard setter, allowing Sandshrew to hit Larvesta, Flying-types, and the rare Ice-types.

Set Details
========

The EVs provide Sandshrew with lots of bulk, hitting 23/18/10 before Eviolite, with the remaining EVs being invested in Attack and Speed, hitting 16 Attack and 11 Speed, to outspeed-creep Pokemon, such as Timburr and Pumpkaboo. Eviolite provideboosts Sandshrew with a lot of added's bulk and gels nicelyworks well with the EVs, as they putwhich make Sandshrew's Defense and Special Defense at even numbers. Sandshrew's abilities rather contradict its role, but if the opponent brings Suses a sand team, Sandshrew will hit 22 Speed, becoming ae blisteringly fast support Pokemonthanks to Sand Rush.

Usage Tips
========

Sandshrew's impressive Defense stat allows it to switch into a majority of non-super effective physical moves; take advantage of this, setting up Stealth Rock or Rapid Spinnremoving hazards away,with Rapid Spin while the opponentfoe switches out. If Stealth Rock is uselected over Rock Slide, be awarey of Fletchling, as it is immune to Earthquake and lacks an item, weakening Knock Off's power. Although Stealth Rock and Rapid Spin are great moves, they make Sandshrew rather predictable, as it'll either lead or switch in shortly after the opponent sets hazards; be sure to play smartly with Sandshrew, perhaps nailing the obvious Pumpkaboo switch-in with a Knock Off as opposed to simply using Rapid Spinning.

Team Options
========

Sandshrew pairs well with Fire-, Flying-, and Bug-types, as it can remove Stealth Rock from the field. Spike-stacking Pokemons users, such as Trubbish and Ferroseed, can partner with Sandshrew to form an effective hazard-setting core. Ferroseed, in particular, can handle the Water- and Grass-type attacks aimed at Sandshrew. Pumpkaboo can spinblock, keeping Sandshrew's Stealth Rock on the field; it also resists Water- and Grass-types attacks aimed at Sandshrew. Pawniard deters Defog- users, as its ability, Defiant, gives it a large Attack boost due to the evasion dropwhen hit by Defog. Clerics, such as Spritzee and Lickitung, can compensate for Sandshrew's lack of recovery, passing Wish and Heal Bell / Aromatherapy to the Ground-typesupport to it. RestTalk Munchlax can handle Foongus and special-attacking Water-types, all while absorbing status, specificalparticularly burn, that Sandshrew doesn't appreciate.

Other Options
########

Due to Sandshrew's already-impressive bulk, Eviolite can be opted out for Berry Juice, providing Sandshrew with a form of recovery; however, the lack of bulk on the special side is quite noticeable and Sandshrew's ability to soak up hits gets neutered quite a bit. Rest + Sleep Talk is Eviolite Sandshrew's only reliable method of recovery, but Sandshrew lacks the resistances to properly take advantage of this set. A fully offensive Sand Rush set can be utilized in tandem with Hippopotas, allowing Sandshrew to abusutilize its good Attack stat and coverage moves to sweep an opposing team. Sand Veil is an option should Sandshrew's potential sSpeed boost with Sand Rush not be sufficient, letting Sandshrew occasionally dodge an incoming hit while Ssand is up. Rock Tomb can be used as coverage instead of Rock Slide, allowing Sandshrew to better follow up on certain switch-ins; however this, Rock Tomb fails to OHKO Fletchling after Stealth Rock. Sandshrew can make good use of a Swords Dance set, OHKOing Pumpkaboo with a +2 Knock Off. Poison Jab is a solid means of dealing with Fairy-types, specificalnotably Cottonee, and spreading poison around the opposing team. Sandshrew can utilize Counter duethanks to its fantastic physical bulk, but it usually ends up wasting a moveslot and is a gimmick more than anything else.

Checks & Counters
########

**Ghost-types**: Ghost-types such as Gastly and Pumpkaboo can switch into an Earthquake or Rapid Spin with ease; however, neither of them want to take a Knock Off.

**Special Attackers**: Powerful special attackers, such as Abra and Omanyte, can easily KO Sandshrew with moves such as Energy Ball and Hydro Pump, respectively.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types resist Sandshrew's Earthquake and; furthermore, asince most Grass-types are special attackers, they can KO Sandshrew with Giga Drain or Energy Ball.

**Water-types**: Although Water-types don't usually resist Sandshrew's Earthquake, most of them are specially-oriented with thand so are abilityle to KO Sandshrew with Scald, Surf, or Hydro Pump.

**Burn status**: If Sandshrew is bBurned it loses all of its offensive presence, rendering it renders Sandshrew almost useless outside of being a utility Pokemon, halving its Attack stat; it also lacks recovery, so the chip damage from burn is quite threatening.

**Hazard Removers**: Defoggers and Rapid Spinn users, such as Vullaby, Staryu, and Drilbur, can usually cause some trouble for Sandshrew, being able to remove its Stealth Rocks with ease; Staryu, in particular, can be an issue for Sandshrew, as it is a special-attackable to KO it in addition to removing Water-typeits hazards.

GP 1/2

Implented, thanks for the check

 

[frenzyplant]

2/2 :)

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Overview
########

Sandshrew has good physical bulk and Attack, along with access to Rapid Spin and Knock Off, both of which are fantastic support moves. However, besides its superior better Defense stat (repetition of superior) and access to Knock Off, Sandshrew is mostly outclassed by Drilbur, which has mostly superior stats and a better ability in Mold Breaker. Sandshrew is also easily worn down due to its lack of recovery and mediocre base 30 Special Defense. Also, due to the removal of permanent weather, Sandshrew's loses its previous niche as a sand sweeper, limiting its capabilities to that of a defensive support Pokemon. Although Sandshrew is outclassed in quite a few areas, it is still a solid choice on any bulky balance team.

Rapid Spin
########
name: Rapid Spin
move 1: Rapid Spin
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Stealth Rock / Rock Slide
item: Eviolite
ability: Sand Rush
evs: 116 HP / 156 Atk / 156 Def / 36 SpD / 36 Spe
nature: Impish

Moves
========

Rapid Spin allows Sandshrew to aid its teammates by removing hazards. Earthquake is Sandshrew's STAB move of choice, hitting a lot of Pokemon quite hard. Knock Off is a great utility option, hitting Ghost-types that try to spinblock, notably Pumpkaboo, a Pokemon that Drilbur cannot heavily damage. It also removes opposing Eviolites, Choice Scarves, and Berry Juices, making walls and sweepers easier to deal with. Stealth Rock is a fantastic move; Sandshrew's more offensive teammates can benefit from foes being weakened by it. Rock Slide can be used over Stealth Rock if your team already has a hazard setter, allowing Sandshrew to hit Larvesta, Flying-types, and Ice-types.

Set Details
========

The EVs provide Sandshrew with lots of bulk, hitting 23 / 18 / 10 before Eviolite, with the remaining EVs being invested in Attack and Speed, (comma) hitting 16 Attack and 11 Speed, (comma) to let Sandshrew outspeed Pokemon such as Timburr and Pumpkaboo. Eviolite boosts Sandshrew's bulk and works well with the EVs, which make Sandshrew's Defense and Special Defense even numbers. Sandshrew's abilities rather contradict its role, but if the opponent uses a sand team, Sandshrew becomes blisteringly fast thanks to Sand Rush.

Usage Tips
========

Sandshrew's impressive Defense stat allows it to switch into a majority of non-super effective physical moves; take advantage of this, setting up Stealth Rock or removing hazards with Rapid Spin while the foe switches out. If Stealth Rock is used over Rock Slide, be wary of Fletchling, as it is immune to Earthquake and lacks an item, weakening Knock Off's power. Although Stealth Rock and Rapid Spin are great moves, they make Sandshrew rather predictable, as it'll either lead or switch in shortly after the opponent sets hazards; be sure to play smartly with Sandshrew, perhaps for example nailing the obvious Pumpkaboo switch-in with a Knock Off as opposed to simply using Rapid Spin.

Team Options
========

Sandshrew pairs well with Fire-, Flying-, (dash) and Bug-types, as it can remove Stealth Rock from the field. Spikes users, such as Trubbish and Ferroseed, can partner with Sandshrew to form an effective hazard-setting core. Ferroseed, in particular, can handle the Water- and Grass-type attacks aimed at Sandshrew. Pumpkaboo can spinblock, keeping Sandshrew's Stealth Rock on the field; it also resists Water- and Grass-types attacks aimed at Sandshrew. Pawniard deters Defog users, as its ability, Defiant, gives it a large Attack boost when hit by Defog. Clerics, (remove comma) such as Spritzee and Lickitung, (remove comma) can compensate for Sandshrew's lack of recovery, passing providing it with Wish and Heal Bell / Aromatherapy support to it. RestTalk Munchlax can handle Foongus and special Water-types, all while absorbing status, particularly burn, that Sandshrew doesn't appreciate.

Other Options
########

Due to Sandshrew's already-impressive bulk, Eviolite can be opted out for Berry Juice, providing Sandshrew with a form of recovery; however, the Sandshrew's subsequent lack of special bulk on the special side is quite noticeable, (comma) and Sandshrew's its ability to soak up hits gets neutered is diminished quite a bit. (like unique, neuter can't have adverbs applied to it because it conveys an absolute) RestTalk + Sleep Talk is Eviolite Sandshrew's only reliable method of recovery, but Sandshrew lacks the resistances to properly take advantage of this such a set. A fully offensive Sand Rush set can be utilized in tandem with Hippopotas, allowing Sandshrew to utilize its good Attack stat and coverage moves to sweep an opposing team. Sand Veil is an option should Sandshrew's potential Speed boost with Sand Rush not be sufficient, letting Sandshrew occasionally dodge an incoming hit while sand is up. Rock Tomb can be used over Rock Slide, allowing Sandshrew to better follow up on certain switch-ins; however, Rock Tomb fails to OHKO Fletchling after Stealth Rock. Sandshrew can make good use of a Swords Dance set, OHKOing Pumpkaboo with a +2 Knock Off at +2. Poison Jab is a solid means of dealing with Fairy-types, notably Cottonee, and spreading poison around the opposing team. Sandshrew can utilize Counter thanks to its fantastic physical bulk, but it the move usually ends up wasting a moveslot and is a gimmick more than anything else.

Checks & Counters
########

**Ghost-types**: Ghost-types such as Gastly and Pumpkaboo can switch into an Earthquake or Rapid Spin with ease; however, neither none of them want to take a Knock Off.

**Special Attackers**: Powerful special attackers, (remove comma) such as Abra and Omanyte, (remove comma) can easily KO Sandshrew with moves such as Energy Ball and Hydro Pump, respectively.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types resist Sandshrew's Earthquake; furthermore, as most Grass-types are special attackers, they can KO Sandshrew with Giga Drain or Energy Ball.

**Water-types**: Although most Water-types don't usually resist Sandshrew's Earthquake, most many of them are specially-oriented and so are able to KO Sandshrew with Scald, Surf, or Hydro Pump.

**Burn**: Burn renders Sandshrew almost useless outside of being a utility Pokemon, halving its Attack stat; it also lacks recovery, so the chip damage from burn is quite threatening.

**Hazard Removers**: Defog and Rapid Spin users, such as Vullaby, Staryu, and Drilbur, can usually cause some trouble for Sandshrew, being able to remove its Stealth Rock with ease; Staryu, (remove comma) in particular, (remove comma) can be an issue for Sandshrew, as it is able to KO it in addition to removing hazards.

 

[doomsday doink]

2/2 :)

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Overview
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Sandshrew has good physical bulk and Attack, along with access to Rapid Spin and Knock Off, both of which are fantastic support moves. However, besides its superior better Defense stat (repetition of superior) and access to Knock Off, Sandshrew is mostly outclassed by Drilbur, which has mostly superior stats and a better ability in Mold Breaker. Sandshrew is also easily worn down due to its lack of recovery and mediocre base 30 Special Defense. Also, due to the removal of permanent weather, Sandshrew's loses its previous niche as a sand sweeper, limiting its capabilities to that of a defensive support Pokemon. Although Sandshrew is outclassed in quite a few areas, it is still a solid choice on any bulky balance team.

Rapid Spin
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name: Rapid Spin
move 1: Rapid Spin
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Stealth Rock / Rock Slide
item: Eviolite
ability: Sand Rush
evs: 116 HP / 156 Atk / 156 Def / 36 SpD / 36 Spe
nature: Impish

Moves
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Rapid Spin allows Sandshrew to aid its teammates by removing hazards. Earthquake is Sandshrew's STAB move of choice, hitting a lot of Pokemon quite hard. Knock Off is a great utility option, hitting Ghost-types that try to spinblock, notably Pumpkaboo, a Pokemon that Drilbur cannot heavily damage. It also removes opposing Eviolites, Choice Scarves, and Berry Juices, making walls and sweepers easier to deal with. Stealth Rock is a fantastic move; Sandshrew's more offensive teammates can benefit from foes being weakened by it. Rock Slide can be used over Stealth Rock if your team already has a hazard setter, allowing Sandshrew to hit Larvesta, Flying-types, and Ice-types.

Set Details
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The EVs provide Sandshrew with lots of bulk, hitting 23 / 18 / 10 before Eviolite, with the remaining EVs being invested in Attack and Speed, (comma) hitting 16 Attack and 11 Speed, (comma) to let Sandshrew outspeed Pokemon such as Timburr and Pumpkaboo. Eviolite boosts Sandshrew's bulk and works well with the EVs, which make Sandshrew's Defense and Special Defense even numbers. Sandshrew's abilities rather contradict its role, but if the opponent uses a sand team, Sandshrew becomes blisteringly fast thanks to Sand Rush.

Usage Tips
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Sandshrew's impressive Defense stat allows it to switch into a majority of non-super effective physical moves; take advantage of this, setting up Stealth Rock or removing hazards with Rapid Spin while the foe switches out. If Stealth Rock is used over Rock Slide, be wary of Fletchling, as it is immune to Earthquake and lacks an item, weakening Knock Off's power. Although Stealth Rock and Rapid Spin are great moves, they make Sandshrew rather predictable, as it'll either lead or switch in shortly after the opponent sets hazards; be sure to play smartly with Sandshrew, perhaps for example nailing the obvious Pumpkaboo switch-in with a Knock Off as opposed to simply using Rapid Spin.

Team Options
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Sandshrew pairs well with Fire-, Flying-, (dash) and Bug-types, as it can remove Stealth Rock from the field. Spikes users, such as Trubbish and Ferroseed, can partner with Sandshrew to form an effective hazard-setting core. Ferroseed, in particular, can handle the Water- and Grass-type attacks aimed at Sandshrew. Pumpkaboo can spinblock, keeping Sandshrew's Stealth Rock on the field; it also resists Water- and Grass-types attacks aimed at Sandshrew. Pawniard deters Defog users, as its ability, Defiant, gives it a large Attack boost when hit by Defog. Clerics, (remove comma) such as Spritzee and Lickitung, (remove comma) can compensate for Sandshrew's lack of recovery, passing providing it with Wish and Heal Bell / Aromatherapy support to it. RestTalk Munchlax can handle Foongus and special Water-types, all while absorbing status, particularly burn, that Sandshrew doesn't appreciate.

Other Options
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Due to Sandshrew's already-impressive bulk, Eviolite can be opted out for Berry Juice, providing Sandshrew with a form of recovery; however, the Sandshrew's subsequent lack of special bulk on the special side is quite noticeable, (comma) and Sandshrew's its ability to soak up hits gets neutered is diminished quite a bit. (like unique, neuter can't have adverbs applied to it because it conveys an absolute) RestTalk + Sleep Talk is Eviolite Sandshrew's only reliable method of recovery, but Sandshrew lacks the resistances to properly take advantage of this such a set. A fully offensive Sand Rush set can be utilized in tandem with Hippopotas, allowing Sandshrew to utilize its good Attack stat and coverage moves to sweep an opposing team. Sand Veil is an option should Sandshrew's potential Speed boost with Sand Rush not be sufficient, letting Sandshrew occasionally dodge an incoming hit while sand is up. Rock Tomb can be used over Rock Slide, allowing Sandshrew to better follow up on certain switch-ins; however, Rock Tomb fails to OHKO Fletchling after Stealth Rock. Sandshrew can make good use of a Swords Dance set, OHKOing Pumpkaboo with a +2 Knock Off at +2. Poison Jab is a solid means of dealing with Fairy-types, notably Cottonee, and spreading poison around the opposing team. Sandshrew can utilize Counter thanks to its fantastic physical bulk, but it the move usually ends up wasting a moveslot and is a gimmick more than anything else.

Checks & Counters
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**Ghost-types**: Ghost-types such as Gastly and Pumpkaboo can switch into an Earthquake or Rapid Spin with ease; however, neither none of them want to take a Knock Off.

**Special Attackers**: Powerful special attackers, (remove comma) such as Abra and Omanyte, (remove comma) can easily KO Sandshrew with moves such as Energy Ball and Hydro Pump, respectively.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types resist Sandshrew's Earthquake; furthermore, as most Grass-types are special attackers, they can KO Sandshrew with Giga Drain or Energy Ball.

**Water-types**: Although most Water-types don't usually resist Sandshrew's Earthquake, most many of them are specially-oriented and so are able to KO Sandshrew with Scald, Surf, or Hydro Pump.

**Burn**: Burn renders Sandshrew almost useless outside of being a utility Pokemon, halving its Attack stat; it also lacks recovery, so the chip damage from burn is quite threatening.

**Hazard Removers**: Defog and Rapid Spin users, such as Vullaby, Staryu, and Drilbur, can usually cause some trouble for Sandshrew, being able to remove its Stealth Rock with ease; Staryu, (remove comma) in particular, (remove comma) can be an issue for Sandshrew, as it is able to KO it in addition to removing hazards.

Implemented, thanks for the check, this is all finished