QC: Scyther no Swiping / Eevee General / unfixable
GP: The Dutch Plumberjack / GatoDelFuego
[OVERVIEW]
Scizor is a versatile and powerful physical attacker that brings plenty of utility to any STABmons team. Its typing gives it vital resistances to Dragon-, Fairy-, Ice-, Steel-, and Normal-type attacks, such as Kyurem-B's Icicle Crash, Sylveon's Boomburst, and the Fake Out + Extreme Speed combination. Its Mega Evolution has excellent physical bulk, which allows it to wall threats or set up with Shift Gear easily, while Life Orb and Choice Band give it incredible strength. However, Scizor is held back from completely dominating the metagame by its mediocre Special Defense stat, double weakness to Fire, and dependence on the unreliable Gear Grind and Pin Missile. Despite those negatives, Scizor's positive traits and ability to check or counter threats such as Kyurem-B, Landorus-T, Mega Diancie, Terrakion, Latios, Weavile, Tyranitar, Excadrill, and Ursaring firmly cement its place as a Pokemon that all teams should consider.
[SET]
name: Defensive Shift Gear
move 1: Shift Gear
move 2: Roost
move 3: Gear Grind
move 4: Knock Off / Pin Missile
item: Scizorite
ability: Light Metal
nature: Impish
evs: 248 HP / 60 Def / 200 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shift Gear and Roost allow Mega Scizor to boost its Attack and Speed while remaining healthy throughout the whole battle. Gear Grind is Mega Scizor's main attack, and the boosts from STAB and Technician make it very strong. Knock Off has decent coverage and provides utility by removing items such as Heatran's Leftovers, Skarmory's Shed Shell, and Porygon2's Eviolite. Pin Missile hits Pokemon that resist Steel such as Rotom-W, Mega Slowbro, and Ferrothorn, but its coverage is very limited.
Set Details
========
With maximum HP investment and 200 Special Defense EVs, Mega Scizor avoids the OHKO from Mega Diancie's Hidden Power Fire and the 2HKO from Mega Gardevoir's Focus Blast, both after Stealth Rock. The remaining 60 EVs are invested into Defense, which allows Mega Scizor to never be 2HKOed by Jolly Landorus-T's Precipice Blades or Dragon Ascent when used in conjunction with an Impish nature. A simple 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD EV spread is also an option, as Mega Scizor becomes capable of evading 2HKOs from powerful physical attacks such as Adamant Mega Lopunny's High Jump Kick and Life Orb Terrakion's Close Combat. Scizorite drastically boosts Scizor's defenses, and Light Metal allows regular Scizor to take less Low Kick damage from Pokemon such as Weavile.
Usage Tips
========
This Mega Scizor shouldn't aim to set up and sweep early-game while the opponent's team is still healthy. Instead, it should pivot into the attackers that it walls, such as Tyranitar and Landorus-T, and use Knock Off and its STAB attacks to weaken the opposing team while remaining healthy with Roost. Keep this set away from crippling burns and paralysis, as well as powerful special attacks, especially Fire-type ones. When the opponent's team is weakened in the late-game, set up on a Pokemon that cannot deal significant damage to Mega Scizor, such as Tyranitar or defensive Landorus-T. Thanks to its excellent bulk, this Mega Scizor set can grab multiple boosts in front of these Pokemon.
Team Options
========
This Mega Scizor variant is a good choice for balance teams that enjoy the presence of a reliable sweeper that can provide defensive synergy thanks to its access to recovery. Generally, it needs help from teammates to break through its checks and counters. Water-types deal with Fire-types such as Heatran, and some of them can also handle Keldeo. Slowbro can handle non-Choice Specs Keldeo while slowing down threats with Thunder Wave, while Rotom-W can also paralyze with Nuzzle and pivot with Volt Switch. Latios and Latias are capable of handling Keldeo and Fire-types, especially if they run Surf, and provide Defog and Lunar Dance support. Kyurem-B has excellent offensive synergy with Mega Scizor, as it can heavily damage Skarmory with Fusion Bolt and freely set up on Rotom-W with Substitute + Dragon Dance.
[SET]
name: Offensive Shift Gear
move 1: Shift Gear
move 2: Gear Grind
move 3: Pin Missile
move 4: Superpower
item: Scizorite / Life Orb
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly / Adamant
evs: 52 HP / 252 Atk / 204 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shift Gear boosts Attack and Speed, and with this Scizor's incredible power and coverage, it can destroy teams after just one boost. Gear Grind is boosted by STAB and Technician, making it incredibly powerful. Pin Missile has the potential to be even stronger, and hits bulky Pokemon that resist Steel such as Jirachi, Rotom-W, Slowbro, and Mega Slowbro hard. However, Scizor is often troubled by its varying damage output. Superpower is necessary coverage for Steel-types such as Heatran and Ferrothorn and also deals heavy damage to Keldeo at +1 Attack.
Set Details
========
When used alongside a Jolly nature, 204 Speed EVs allow Mega Scizor to outspeed Choice Scarf Keldeo and Terrakion at +2 Speed. The Attack EVs are then maximized and the remaining EVs are invested in HP to improve Mega Scizor's overall bulk. Scizorite allows Scizor to Mega Evolve and increase its Attack and defenses, which eases setup and reduces damage from Knock Off. However, Life Orb Scizor is also a viable choice, as it makes up for its lessened bulk with its incredible power.
If outspeeding Choice Scarf Keldeo and Terrakion is not necessary, an Adamant nature with a simple EV spread of 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe makes Mega Scizor even stronger. This is also the recommended spread for Life Orb Scizor, although both Adamant and Jolly are options, as it cannot hit the same Speed benchmark that Mega Scizor can.
Usage Tips
========
This Scizor set lacks longevity, as it doesn't run Roost, and has more difficulty setting up due to its lesser bulk. Due to this, it's recommended to keep Scizor healthy throughout the match, only switching it in when it needs to check a dangerous foe such as Weavile. However, this set's excellent power and coverage make it far more threatening early-game, and it can also choose to set up early- and mid-game to weaken the opponent's team. Keep in mind that if Scizor chooses to do this, it will be too weakened to sweep late-game unless it is healed with Lunar Dance, so its team should have an alternative wincon. Generally, work towards weakening Pokemon that resist Scizor's STAB moves such as Zapdos and Keldeo with attacks and entry hazards throughout the whole match and then set up with Shift Gear and sweep late-game.
Team Options
========
This set fits best on offensive teams that enjoy its presence as a strong and fast sweeper, and Scizor appreciates the entry hazard-stacking common on these teams. Terrakion, Heatran, and Tyranitar have access to Stealth Rock, and Landorus-T and Garchomp have access to both Stealth Rock and Spikes. These Pokemon also have a favorable matchup against the Fire-types that threaten Scizor. Offensive Water-types such as Keldeo and Azumarill also break through Fire-types, and Azumarill has the additional ability to check opposing Keldeo. Latios and Latias switch into powerful Water- and Fire-type attacks, break down walls with their powerful Draco Meteors, and provide Lunar Dance support to give Scizor a second chance at sweeping. Kyurem-B is another good Dragon-type partner, as it can overwhelm Skarmory with Fusion Bolt and take advantage of Rotom-W with Substitute + Dragon Dance.
[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Gear Grind
move 3: Bullet Punch
move 4: Superpower / Pursuit
item: Choice Band
ability: Technician
nature: Adamant
evs: 84 HP / 252 Atk / 172 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
U-turn allows Scizor to scout and pivot, gaining momentum for Scizor's team. Gear Grind allows Scizor to break through walls. As an example of its power, it always OHKOes 252 HP / 0 Def Mew. Bullet Punch allows Scizor to revenge kill troublesome foes, outright OHKOing Gengar and Pokemon weak to Steel such as Terrakion and Aerodactyl. Superpower hits Steel-type switch-ins such as Ferrothorn and Heatran, OHKOing specially defensive variants. Pursuit provides utility by trapping Pokemon that fear U-turn or Bullet Punch, such as Gengar, Latios, Latias, Meloetta, Mega Gardevoir, and Hoopa-U.
Pin Missile can be used to hit bulky Water-types such as Rotom-W, Mega Slowbro, and Quagsire hard. Knock Off is another option that provides decent coverage and removes items such as Eviolite and Leftovers.
Set Details
========
The Speed EVs allow Scizor to outrun defensive Rotom-W and most specially defensive Heatran. Maximum Attack investment with an Adamant nature is a necessity to increase Scizor's power. The remaining EVs are invested in HP, which makes use of Scizor's decent bulk, pivoting capabilities, and access to Pursuit. A simple EV spread of 248 HP / 252 Atk / 8 SpD can also be used for more bulk, which makes Scizor a more reliable Pursuit trapper and pivot, but it misses out on outspeeding defensive targets. Technician is the necessary ability, as it boosts the power of Pursuit if the foe doesn't switch out, Gear Grind, and Bullet Punch.
Usage Tips
========
This Scizor cannot set up, but it makes up for it with its monstrous initial power and ability to pivot and scout. U-turn should be the move of choice early-game, as it provides momentum and scouts the opponent's default response to Scizor. Gear Grind should be used when to weaken the opponent's team, as it heavily dents all Pokemon that do not resist it. Use Superpower to hit Steel-types, but be wary of King's Shield. Scout for Fire-type coverage moves as well as Will-O-Wisp when Scizor is trying to Pursuit trap a foe. Bullet Punch should be used to revenge kill threats, as well as clean up weakened teams. However, be aware that the move lock from Choice Band means the opponent can often set up on Scizor.
Team Options
========
Scizor fits well into VoltTurn chains, as they provide momentum and allow it to Pursuit trap more easily. VoltTurn partners include Landorus-T, Rotom-W, Mega Manectric, and Tornadus-T. The latter two Pokemon are also capable of checking non-Choice Scarf Keldeo. Powerful wallbreakers such as Hoopa-U and Mega Medicham appreciate getting a safe switch thanks to U-turn, while reliable cleaners such as Mega Lopunny appreciate having the opposing team worn down by a VoltTurn chain. Entry hazards severely limit Scizor's checks and counters, as many are Fire- or Flying-types; Heatran can set up Stealth Rock while Garchomp can set up both Stealth Rock and Spikes. These two Pokemon take little damage from Fire-type attacks aimed at Scizor and can threaten Skarmory with Blue Flare and Fire Blast, respectively. Rapid Spin support is appreciated so Scizor is not worn down quickly. It can be provided by Starmie and Excadrill, which hit Fire-types hard with their STAB attacks, or Normal-types such as Meloetta and Mega Lopunny. These Normal-types can also run Fake Out + Extreme Speed to revenge kill sweepers that set up on a Choice-locked Scizor.
[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: Roost
move 2: U-turn
move 3: Bullet Punch
move 4: Defog / Sticky Web
item: Scizorite
ability: Light Metal
nature: Impish
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Roost allows Mega Scizor to keep itself healthy and wall foes. U-turn provides momentum for Mega Scizor's team and brings in frail Pokemon easily. Even without Attack investment, Bullet Punch picks off weakened Pokemon that can be threatening for Mega Scizor's team, such as Terrakion and Mega Diancie. The last slot is dedicated to entry hazard removal and setup; Defog removes all entry hazards, while Sticky Web slows down the opposing team's grounded Pokemon.
Mega Scizor can run Superpower so it can KO Bisharp, Excadrill, and various Normal-types quickly. Gear Grind stops Mega Scizor from being complete setup fodder for bulkier foes, as it still hits very hard without any Attack investment. Knock Off and Pursuit are also options to bring more utility to Mega Scizor's team.
Set Details
========
Maximized HP and Defense EVs make Mega Scizor insanely physically bulky, avoiding 2HKOs from powerful attacks such as Adamant Landorus-T's Precipice Blades and Dragon Ascent, Adamant Excadrill's Precipice Blades, Jolly Life Orb Mamoswine and Garchomp's Precipice Blades, Adamant Mega Lopunny's High Jump Kick, Jolly Life Orb Terrakion's Close Combat, Adamant Life Orb Azumarill's Crabhammer, and Adamant Mega Tyranitar's Diamond Storm. This allows Mega Scizor to comfortably check or counter these Pokemon, as well as others such as Weavile and Bisharp. Scizorite allows Scizor to Mega Evolve into the much bulkier Mega Scizor, and Light Metal reduces the damage taken from Low Kick by regular Scizor.
Usage Tips
========
This Mega Scizor should aim to switch into the many attackers that it walls and keep healthy with Roost. The free turns generated should be used to clear entry hazards, set up Sticky Web, or U-turn out for momentum. Sticky Web should be used as soon as possible to aid the slow Pokemon on Mega Scizor's team. The threat of Bullet Punch is also excellent for generating free turns. Switch Mega Scizor out against powerful special attackers, Pokemon with Fire-type moves, and Pokemon that can set up freely on this set's weak attacks. In particular, scout for Fire-type coverage moves from the above Pokemon, such as Fire Blast from Garchomp and Tyranitar.
Team Options
========
This set gives up Mega Scizor's innate sweeping capabilities and uses the team's Mega slot to control entry hazards and wall threats. It fits on balanced and defensive teams that appreciate a Pokemon that can remove or set entry hazards while serving as a solid physical wall. However, offensive teams also appreciate the slow U-turn that Mega Scizor brings, as well as Sticky Web to aid its slower wallbreakers. In general, pairing Mega Scizor with a Fake Out + Extreme Speed user such as Stoutland or Ursaring is helpful, as they can revenge kill the sweepers that set up on this fairly passive set. Pokemon weak to Stealth Rock, such as Thundurus and Tornadus-T, appreciate Mega Scizor's ability to reliably use Defog. Slower wallbreakers such as Kyurem-B and Hoopa-U enjoy Sticky Web slowing down the opponent's team, as well as the safe switch provided by U-turn. However, they need to be able to deal with the Flying-types immune to Sticky Web. More defensively oriented VoltTurn users keep up momentum and deal with Pokemon that threaten Mega Scizor. Rotom-W paralyzes threats and can deal with many Fire-types, while Assault Vest Tornadus-T and Celebi can take on Keldeo. In return, Mega Scizor can switch into Grass-type attacks for Rotom-W and handles Weavile for Tornadus-T and Celebi.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Swords Dance sets are still usable, as the faster boost to Attack allows them to break through bulky Pokemon more quickly, but they overall perform worse against the speedy metagame. If the Mega slot needs to be kept open, regular Scizor can run the bulky Shift Gear set with Leftovers in place of Scizorite, but it's often let down by its relative frailty when compared to its Mega counterpart. Choice Scarf offers a speedy U-turn, Gear Grind, and Pursuit, but it's quite weak and still not very fast, making it a bad choice. Scizor can run neat Agility + Baton Pass sets, which passes boosts to Pokemon that can take advantage of baited Fire-types, such as Tail Glow Manaphy and Swords Dance Landorus-T.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Fire-type Pokemon and Moves**: Generally, any STAB Fire-type attack is capable of OHKOing Scizor. Heatran is only hit hard by Superpower, and Choice Scarf sets can beat defensive Shift Gear Scizor even at +2 Speed. Both Mega Evolutions of Charizard survive an attack and KO in return. However, it should be noted that Adamant Life Orb Scizor easily OHKOes Mega Charizard Y with a +1 Gear Grind. Rotom-H easily takes all attacks other than a +1 Superpower and OHKOes Scizor. Talonflame can OHKO Scizor or burn it with Will-O-Wisp and set up on it. Various other Pokemon can outspeed an unboosted Scizor and KO it with a Fire-type coverage move, such as Hidden Power Fire Latios and Fire Blast Garchomp.
**Electric-types**: Zapdos resists Gear Grind and Pin Missile and can OHKO Scizor in return with Heat Wave. Mega Manectric lowers Scizor's Attack with Intimidate and KOes with Flamethrower or Overheat. Magnezone can trap Scizor thanks to Magnet Pull and KO with Hidden Power Fire. However, the latter two Pokemon lose to offensive Shift Gear Scizor after a boost.
**Water-types**: Suicune has amazing physical bulk and can burn Scizor with Scald. Keldeo resists both Gear Grind and Pin Missile and hits Scizor hard with Origin Pulse or revenge kills it with Vacuum Wave. Rotom-W comfortably takes attacks other than Pin Missile and can cut a Scizor sweep short with either Nuzzle or Will-O-Wisp.
**Physically Defensive Pokemon**: Skarmory can always take a boosted hit from Scizor and Whirlwind it out while remaining healthy with Roost. However, it loses if Scizor is the last Pokemon on its team and therefore cannot be phazed. Quagsire tanks Scizor's attacks, with the exception of Pin Missile from offensive sets. It ignores Shift Gear boosts and can burn Scizor with Scald. Regular Sableye can use its priority Will-O-Wisp to cripple Scizor, while Mega Sableye can do the same but is forced to take a large amount of damage in the process. Generally, most physical walls are unable to deal with the awesome power of Gear Grind and Pin Missile.
GP: The Dutch Plumberjack / GatoDelFuego
[OVERVIEW]
Scizor is a versatile and powerful physical attacker that brings plenty of utility to any STABmons team. Its typing gives it vital resistances to Dragon-, Fairy-, Ice-, Steel-, and Normal-type attacks, such as Kyurem-B's Icicle Crash, Sylveon's Boomburst, and the Fake Out + Extreme Speed combination. Its Mega Evolution has excellent physical bulk, which allows it to wall threats or set up with Shift Gear easily, while Life Orb and Choice Band give it incredible strength. However, Scizor is held back from completely dominating the metagame by its mediocre Special Defense stat, double weakness to Fire, and dependence on the unreliable Gear Grind and Pin Missile. Despite those negatives, Scizor's positive traits and ability to check or counter threats such as Kyurem-B, Landorus-T, Mega Diancie, Terrakion, Latios, Weavile, Tyranitar, Excadrill, and Ursaring firmly cement its place as a Pokemon that all teams should consider.
[SET]
name: Defensive Shift Gear
move 1: Shift Gear
move 2: Roost
move 3: Gear Grind
move 4: Knock Off / Pin Missile
item: Scizorite
ability: Light Metal
nature: Impish
evs: 248 HP / 60 Def / 200 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shift Gear and Roost allow Mega Scizor to boost its Attack and Speed while remaining healthy throughout the whole battle. Gear Grind is Mega Scizor's main attack, and the boosts from STAB and Technician make it very strong. Knock Off has decent coverage and provides utility by removing items such as Heatran's Leftovers, Skarmory's Shed Shell, and Porygon2's Eviolite. Pin Missile hits Pokemon that resist Steel such as Rotom-W, Mega Slowbro, and Ferrothorn, but its coverage is very limited.
Set Details
========
With maximum HP investment and 200 Special Defense EVs, Mega Scizor avoids the OHKO from Mega Diancie's Hidden Power Fire and the 2HKO from Mega Gardevoir's Focus Blast, both after Stealth Rock. The remaining 60 EVs are invested into Defense, which allows Mega Scizor to never be 2HKOed by Jolly Landorus-T's Precipice Blades or Dragon Ascent when used in conjunction with an Impish nature. A simple 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD EV spread is also an option, as Mega Scizor becomes capable of evading 2HKOs from powerful physical attacks such as Adamant Mega Lopunny's High Jump Kick and Life Orb Terrakion's Close Combat. Scizorite drastically boosts Scizor's defenses, and Light Metal allows regular Scizor to take less Low Kick damage from Pokemon such as Weavile.
Usage Tips
========
This Mega Scizor shouldn't aim to set up and sweep early-game while the opponent's team is still healthy. Instead, it should pivot into the attackers that it walls, such as Tyranitar and Landorus-T, and use Knock Off and its STAB attacks to weaken the opposing team while remaining healthy with Roost. Keep this set away from crippling burns and paralysis, as well as powerful special attacks, especially Fire-type ones. When the opponent's team is weakened in the late-game, set up on a Pokemon that cannot deal significant damage to Mega Scizor, such as Tyranitar or defensive Landorus-T. Thanks to its excellent bulk, this Mega Scizor set can grab multiple boosts in front of these Pokemon.
Team Options
========
This Mega Scizor variant is a good choice for balance teams that enjoy the presence of a reliable sweeper that can provide defensive synergy thanks to its access to recovery. Generally, it needs help from teammates to break through its checks and counters. Water-types deal with Fire-types such as Heatran, and some of them can also handle Keldeo. Slowbro can handle non-Choice Specs Keldeo while slowing down threats with Thunder Wave, while Rotom-W can also paralyze with Nuzzle and pivot with Volt Switch. Latios and Latias are capable of handling Keldeo and Fire-types, especially if they run Surf, and provide Defog and Lunar Dance support. Kyurem-B has excellent offensive synergy with Mega Scizor, as it can heavily damage Skarmory with Fusion Bolt and freely set up on Rotom-W with Substitute + Dragon Dance.
[SET]
name: Offensive Shift Gear
move 1: Shift Gear
move 2: Gear Grind
move 3: Pin Missile
move 4: Superpower
item: Scizorite / Life Orb
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly / Adamant
evs: 52 HP / 252 Atk / 204 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shift Gear boosts Attack and Speed, and with this Scizor's incredible power and coverage, it can destroy teams after just one boost. Gear Grind is boosted by STAB and Technician, making it incredibly powerful. Pin Missile has the potential to be even stronger, and hits bulky Pokemon that resist Steel such as Jirachi, Rotom-W, Slowbro, and Mega Slowbro hard. However, Scizor is often troubled by its varying damage output. Superpower is necessary coverage for Steel-types such as Heatran and Ferrothorn and also deals heavy damage to Keldeo at +1 Attack.
Set Details
========
When used alongside a Jolly nature, 204 Speed EVs allow Mega Scizor to outspeed Choice Scarf Keldeo and Terrakion at +2 Speed. The Attack EVs are then maximized and the remaining EVs are invested in HP to improve Mega Scizor's overall bulk. Scizorite allows Scizor to Mega Evolve and increase its Attack and defenses, which eases setup and reduces damage from Knock Off. However, Life Orb Scizor is also a viable choice, as it makes up for its lessened bulk with its incredible power.
If outspeeding Choice Scarf Keldeo and Terrakion is not necessary, an Adamant nature with a simple EV spread of 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe makes Mega Scizor even stronger. This is also the recommended spread for Life Orb Scizor, although both Adamant and Jolly are options, as it cannot hit the same Speed benchmark that Mega Scizor can.
Usage Tips
========
This Scizor set lacks longevity, as it doesn't run Roost, and has more difficulty setting up due to its lesser bulk. Due to this, it's recommended to keep Scizor healthy throughout the match, only switching it in when it needs to check a dangerous foe such as Weavile. However, this set's excellent power and coverage make it far more threatening early-game, and it can also choose to set up early- and mid-game to weaken the opponent's team. Keep in mind that if Scizor chooses to do this, it will be too weakened to sweep late-game unless it is healed with Lunar Dance, so its team should have an alternative wincon. Generally, work towards weakening Pokemon that resist Scizor's STAB moves such as Zapdos and Keldeo with attacks and entry hazards throughout the whole match and then set up with Shift Gear and sweep late-game.
Team Options
========
This set fits best on offensive teams that enjoy its presence as a strong and fast sweeper, and Scizor appreciates the entry hazard-stacking common on these teams. Terrakion, Heatran, and Tyranitar have access to Stealth Rock, and Landorus-T and Garchomp have access to both Stealth Rock and Spikes. These Pokemon also have a favorable matchup against the Fire-types that threaten Scizor. Offensive Water-types such as Keldeo and Azumarill also break through Fire-types, and Azumarill has the additional ability to check opposing Keldeo. Latios and Latias switch into powerful Water- and Fire-type attacks, break down walls with their powerful Draco Meteors, and provide Lunar Dance support to give Scizor a second chance at sweeping. Kyurem-B is another good Dragon-type partner, as it can overwhelm Skarmory with Fusion Bolt and take advantage of Rotom-W with Substitute + Dragon Dance.
[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Gear Grind
move 3: Bullet Punch
move 4: Superpower / Pursuit
item: Choice Band
ability: Technician
nature: Adamant
evs: 84 HP / 252 Atk / 172 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
U-turn allows Scizor to scout and pivot, gaining momentum for Scizor's team. Gear Grind allows Scizor to break through walls. As an example of its power, it always OHKOes 252 HP / 0 Def Mew. Bullet Punch allows Scizor to revenge kill troublesome foes, outright OHKOing Gengar and Pokemon weak to Steel such as Terrakion and Aerodactyl. Superpower hits Steel-type switch-ins such as Ferrothorn and Heatran, OHKOing specially defensive variants. Pursuit provides utility by trapping Pokemon that fear U-turn or Bullet Punch, such as Gengar, Latios, Latias, Meloetta, Mega Gardevoir, and Hoopa-U.
Pin Missile can be used to hit bulky Water-types such as Rotom-W, Mega Slowbro, and Quagsire hard. Knock Off is another option that provides decent coverage and removes items such as Eviolite and Leftovers.
Set Details
========
The Speed EVs allow Scizor to outrun defensive Rotom-W and most specially defensive Heatran. Maximum Attack investment with an Adamant nature is a necessity to increase Scizor's power. The remaining EVs are invested in HP, which makes use of Scizor's decent bulk, pivoting capabilities, and access to Pursuit. A simple EV spread of 248 HP / 252 Atk / 8 SpD can also be used for more bulk, which makes Scizor a more reliable Pursuit trapper and pivot, but it misses out on outspeeding defensive targets. Technician is the necessary ability, as it boosts the power of Pursuit if the foe doesn't switch out, Gear Grind, and Bullet Punch.
Usage Tips
========
This Scizor cannot set up, but it makes up for it with its monstrous initial power and ability to pivot and scout. U-turn should be the move of choice early-game, as it provides momentum and scouts the opponent's default response to Scizor. Gear Grind should be used when to weaken the opponent's team, as it heavily dents all Pokemon that do not resist it. Use Superpower to hit Steel-types, but be wary of King's Shield. Scout for Fire-type coverage moves as well as Will-O-Wisp when Scizor is trying to Pursuit trap a foe. Bullet Punch should be used to revenge kill threats, as well as clean up weakened teams. However, be aware that the move lock from Choice Band means the opponent can often set up on Scizor.
Team Options
========
Scizor fits well into VoltTurn chains, as they provide momentum and allow it to Pursuit trap more easily. VoltTurn partners include Landorus-T, Rotom-W, Mega Manectric, and Tornadus-T. The latter two Pokemon are also capable of checking non-Choice Scarf Keldeo. Powerful wallbreakers such as Hoopa-U and Mega Medicham appreciate getting a safe switch thanks to U-turn, while reliable cleaners such as Mega Lopunny appreciate having the opposing team worn down by a VoltTurn chain. Entry hazards severely limit Scizor's checks and counters, as many are Fire- or Flying-types; Heatran can set up Stealth Rock while Garchomp can set up both Stealth Rock and Spikes. These two Pokemon take little damage from Fire-type attacks aimed at Scizor and can threaten Skarmory with Blue Flare and Fire Blast, respectively. Rapid Spin support is appreciated so Scizor is not worn down quickly. It can be provided by Starmie and Excadrill, which hit Fire-types hard with their STAB attacks, or Normal-types such as Meloetta and Mega Lopunny. These Normal-types can also run Fake Out + Extreme Speed to revenge kill sweepers that set up on a Choice-locked Scizor.
[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: Roost
move 2: U-turn
move 3: Bullet Punch
move 4: Defog / Sticky Web
item: Scizorite
ability: Light Metal
nature: Impish
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Roost allows Mega Scizor to keep itself healthy and wall foes. U-turn provides momentum for Mega Scizor's team and brings in frail Pokemon easily. Even without Attack investment, Bullet Punch picks off weakened Pokemon that can be threatening for Mega Scizor's team, such as Terrakion and Mega Diancie. The last slot is dedicated to entry hazard removal and setup; Defog removes all entry hazards, while Sticky Web slows down the opposing team's grounded Pokemon.
Mega Scizor can run Superpower so it can KO Bisharp, Excadrill, and various Normal-types quickly. Gear Grind stops Mega Scizor from being complete setup fodder for bulkier foes, as it still hits very hard without any Attack investment. Knock Off and Pursuit are also options to bring more utility to Mega Scizor's team.
Set Details
========
Maximized HP and Defense EVs make Mega Scizor insanely physically bulky, avoiding 2HKOs from powerful attacks such as Adamant Landorus-T's Precipice Blades and Dragon Ascent, Adamant Excadrill's Precipice Blades, Jolly Life Orb Mamoswine and Garchomp's Precipice Blades, Adamant Mega Lopunny's High Jump Kick, Jolly Life Orb Terrakion's Close Combat, Adamant Life Orb Azumarill's Crabhammer, and Adamant Mega Tyranitar's Diamond Storm. This allows Mega Scizor to comfortably check or counter these Pokemon, as well as others such as Weavile and Bisharp. Scizorite allows Scizor to Mega Evolve into the much bulkier Mega Scizor, and Light Metal reduces the damage taken from Low Kick by regular Scizor.
Usage Tips
========
This Mega Scizor should aim to switch into the many attackers that it walls and keep healthy with Roost. The free turns generated should be used to clear entry hazards, set up Sticky Web, or U-turn out for momentum. Sticky Web should be used as soon as possible to aid the slow Pokemon on Mega Scizor's team. The threat of Bullet Punch is also excellent for generating free turns. Switch Mega Scizor out against powerful special attackers, Pokemon with Fire-type moves, and Pokemon that can set up freely on this set's weak attacks. In particular, scout for Fire-type coverage moves from the above Pokemon, such as Fire Blast from Garchomp and Tyranitar.
Team Options
========
This set gives up Mega Scizor's innate sweeping capabilities and uses the team's Mega slot to control entry hazards and wall threats. It fits on balanced and defensive teams that appreciate a Pokemon that can remove or set entry hazards while serving as a solid physical wall. However, offensive teams also appreciate the slow U-turn that Mega Scizor brings, as well as Sticky Web to aid its slower wallbreakers. In general, pairing Mega Scizor with a Fake Out + Extreme Speed user such as Stoutland or Ursaring is helpful, as they can revenge kill the sweepers that set up on this fairly passive set. Pokemon weak to Stealth Rock, such as Thundurus and Tornadus-T, appreciate Mega Scizor's ability to reliably use Defog. Slower wallbreakers such as Kyurem-B and Hoopa-U enjoy Sticky Web slowing down the opponent's team, as well as the safe switch provided by U-turn. However, they need to be able to deal with the Flying-types immune to Sticky Web. More defensively oriented VoltTurn users keep up momentum and deal with Pokemon that threaten Mega Scizor. Rotom-W paralyzes threats and can deal with many Fire-types, while Assault Vest Tornadus-T and Celebi can take on Keldeo. In return, Mega Scizor can switch into Grass-type attacks for Rotom-W and handles Weavile for Tornadus-T and Celebi.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
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Swords Dance sets are still usable, as the faster boost to Attack allows them to break through bulky Pokemon more quickly, but they overall perform worse against the speedy metagame. If the Mega slot needs to be kept open, regular Scizor can run the bulky Shift Gear set with Leftovers in place of Scizorite, but it's often let down by its relative frailty when compared to its Mega counterpart. Choice Scarf offers a speedy U-turn, Gear Grind, and Pursuit, but it's quite weak and still not very fast, making it a bad choice. Scizor can run neat Agility + Baton Pass sets, which passes boosts to Pokemon that can take advantage of baited Fire-types, such as Tail Glow Manaphy and Swords Dance Landorus-T.
Checks and Counters
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**Fire-type Pokemon and Moves**: Generally, any STAB Fire-type attack is capable of OHKOing Scizor. Heatran is only hit hard by Superpower, and Choice Scarf sets can beat defensive Shift Gear Scizor even at +2 Speed. Both Mega Evolutions of Charizard survive an attack and KO in return. However, it should be noted that Adamant Life Orb Scizor easily OHKOes Mega Charizard Y with a +1 Gear Grind. Rotom-H easily takes all attacks other than a +1 Superpower and OHKOes Scizor. Talonflame can OHKO Scizor or burn it with Will-O-Wisp and set up on it. Various other Pokemon can outspeed an unboosted Scizor and KO it with a Fire-type coverage move, such as Hidden Power Fire Latios and Fire Blast Garchomp.
**Electric-types**: Zapdos resists Gear Grind and Pin Missile and can OHKO Scizor in return with Heat Wave. Mega Manectric lowers Scizor's Attack with Intimidate and KOes with Flamethrower or Overheat. Magnezone can trap Scizor thanks to Magnet Pull and KO with Hidden Power Fire. However, the latter two Pokemon lose to offensive Shift Gear Scizor after a boost.
**Water-types**: Suicune has amazing physical bulk and can burn Scizor with Scald. Keldeo resists both Gear Grind and Pin Missile and hits Scizor hard with Origin Pulse or revenge kills it with Vacuum Wave. Rotom-W comfortably takes attacks other than Pin Missile and can cut a Scizor sweep short with either Nuzzle or Will-O-Wisp.
**Physically Defensive Pokemon**: Skarmory can always take a boosted hit from Scizor and Whirlwind it out while remaining healthy with Roost. However, it loses if Scizor is the last Pokemon on its team and therefore cannot be phazed. Quagsire tanks Scizor's attacks, with the exception of Pin Missile from offensive sets. It ignores Shift Gear boosts and can burn Scizor with Scald. Regular Sableye can use its priority Will-O-Wisp to cripple Scizor, while Mega Sableye can do the same but is forced to take a large amount of damage in the process. Generally, most physical walls are unable to deal with the awesome power of Gear Grind and Pin Missile.
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