PU Alolan Sandslash

[asa]

uploaded -zard

[QC Checks: Megazard / yogi / UberSkitty]
[GP Checks: The Dutch Plumberjack / lotiasite]

[OVERVIEW]

Due to Slush Rush, Alolan Sandslash is able to outpace the entire unboosted metagame under hail, which in combination with its access to both Swords Dance and fairly high-powered STAB moves in Icicle Crash and Iron Head gives it the ability to be a potent hail sweeper. Alolan Sandslash's solid offensive typing enables it to hit almost all of the tier for neutral damage with its STAB moves alone, and its relatively high Defense allows it to stomach neutral hits from Pokemon such as physical Skuntank and Togedemaru as well as most forms of priority except Mach Punch and retaliate with a much stronger attack, which can make revenge killing it difficult. Alolan Sandslash also has access to solid support options in Stealth Rock and Rapid Spin, with its typing and decent Speed tier giving it a positive matchup against common entry hazard setters, hazard removers, and spinblockers such as Golurk, Swanna, and Oricorio-G to help it perform these roles rather well. While not the best defensively, its typing does allow Alolan Sandslash to switch into Ice-, Fairy-, Normal-, and Psychic-type attacks from Pokemon such as non-Choice Scarf Jynx, Clefairy, Type: Null, and defensive Mesprit. However, its typing burdens it with two crippling 4x weaknesses to Fighting and Fire, meaning that it is very vulnerable to common Pokemon like Pyroar and Gurdurr. Alolan Sandslash's damage output can also prove to be rather disappointing if it hasn't used Swords Dance, which it can struggle doing because of its typing and poor special bulk. Finally, Alolan Sandslash's meager Speed tier leaves it outsped and easily revenge killed by common offensive Pokemon like Kingler outside of hail.

[SET]
name: Hail Sweeper
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Icicle Crash
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Substitute / Iron Head
item: Icium Z / Shuca Berry
ability: Slush Rush
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Swords Dance doubles Alolan Sandslash's Attack, allowing it to more easily sweep through teams. Icicle Crash is Alolan Sandslash's strongest and most reliable Ice-type STAB move, threatening to hit foes such as Torterra for super effective damage. Earthquake gives Alolan Sandslash coverage for foes that resist its dual STAB combination like Lanturn and Pyroar and also hits Pokemon like Aggron and Probopass harder than any of its other attacks. Substitute makes Alolan Sandslash harder to revenge kill outside of hail, guards it from status conditions, and allows it to take advantage of passive Pokemon like Weezing by setting up on them. Iron Head is an alternative secondary STAB move, allowing Alolan Sandslash to hit certain Ice-resistant foes such as Munchlax harder than any of its other moves while also being a more reliable attack to hit Fairy-types like Silvally-Fairy.

Set Details
========

The investment in Attack and Speed, combined with Slush Rush to double its Speed under hail, maximizes Alolan Sandslash's offensive presence while also making it as fast it possibly can be, with a Jolly nature being used to outspeed Choice Scarf users such as Jynx and Primeape under hail. Icium Z turns Icicle Crash into Subzero Slammer, which can be used to break through very physically bulky Pokemon like Gastrodon at +2. Shuca Berry is an alternative that reduces the damage dealt by Ground-type attacks from Pokemon such as Kangaskhan, which prevents it from being overwhelmed by them outside of hail. Life Orb can also be used to increase Alolan Sandslash's damage output if its team already has a Z-Move user, but this does come with the drawback of recoil damage. Iron Head should be used over Substitute if opting for Life Orb, since this limits the amount of HP that Alolan Sandslash will lose.

Usage Tips
========

Alolan Sandslash should aim to use Substitute on Pokemon that it will force out under hail such as Lilligant and Oricorio-G, as this shields it from status conditions, allows it to scout, and makes setting up with Swords Dance easier. It can also use Swords Dance against these Pokemon if it is necessary to break through a bulkier foe. Swords Dance should mainly be used when up against bulkier teams, since it allows Alolan Sandslash to break through typical checks. Against more offensive teams, it may not always be necessary to do so, though it does make sweeping easier if Alolan Sandslash gets the chance to do so. It is advised to wait until very physically bulky Pokemon like Weezing have been weakened or removed to begin attempting a sweep if Alolan Sandslash isn't running Substitute, as this lessens the need for it to use its Z-Move if it is running it and allows it to preserve it if Subzero Slammer is needed to break through another foe. However, Alolan Sandslash is also capable of serving as a wallbreaker that can pave the way for a teammate to sweep. Waiting for Mach Punch users such as Gurdurr to be removed is also important, since they can quickly put an end to Alolan Sandslash's late-game sweep. Avoid switching Alolan Sandslash directly in on attacks, especially special attacks, as this will reduce its longevity and make sweeping more difficult. However, it can be switched in on weaker attacks from Pokemon such as Togedemaru. Despite excelling under hail, Alolan Sandslash is still capable of setting up and breaking with Icium Z outside of it. Life Orb variants of Alolan Sandslash should avoid simply using attacks against teams, since they can just pivot around and let the recoil work against it until it can be picked off by a priority move. Use the fact that it can be rather difficult to discern what item Alolan Sandslash is holding to your advantage by setting up on Pokemon like Kangaskhan, as they are forced out.

Team Options
========

Hail setters such as Abomasnow and Aurorus are indispensable teammates, as Slush Rush is one of the main things that make Alolan Sandslash as threatening as it is. Both can wallbreak for Alolan Sandslash, with the latter also being able to potentially provide Stealth Rock support and generate free setup turns with Encore, while Alolan Sandslash can break through specially defensive Pokemon like Clefairy. Since Fighting-types threaten Alolan Sandslash with strong, 4x super effective attacks, checks to them are a necessity; Pokemon such as Mesprit, Spiritomb with Psychic, and Swanna perform this role well, with Mesprit also offering a slow U-turn and Healing Wish support, Spiritomb luring in and taking out Gurdurr, and Swanna offensively checking Fire-types as well. Checks to Fire-types are also important for the same reason, so Pokemon such as Clefairy and Lanturn are good teammates. Clefairy is also capable of setting Stealth Rock, while Lanturn can bring Alolan Sandslash safely into play with Volt Switch, and both can further wear down some of Alolan Sandslash's switch-ins with Toxic. Fighting-types like Gurdurr appreciate Alolan Sandslash taking care of both their defensive and offensive checks like Weezing and Oricorio-G and can have an easier time sweeping late-game because of this. Gurdurr also provides useful Knock Off support to cripple defensive switch-ins like Weezing. Special wallbreakers such as the two previously mentioned hail setters, Haunter, and Pyroar are appreciated due to their ability to either heavily pressure or outright KO most physical walls that Alolan Sandslash has problems bypassing. In return, Alolan Sandslash can handle specially bulky Pokemon like Audino and Carbink.

[SET]
name: Offensive Support
move 1: Rapid Spin / Stealth Rock
move 2: Icicle Crash
move 3: Knock Off / Iron Head
move 4: Earthquake
item: Shuca Berry
ability: Slush Rush
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Rapid Spin clears entry hazards from Alolan Sandslash's side of the field, which can prove useful for maintaining the longevity of its teammates without compromising any potential entry hazards that its team may set. Alternatively, Stealth Rock can be used to pressure opposing teams by wearing foes down every time they switch in. Icicle Crash is a strong Ice-type STAB move that deals heavy damage to common spinblockers such as Golurk and Oricorio-G, on top of hitting certain Defog users like Shiftry and Togetic for super effective damage. Knock Off cripples bulkier Pokemon that are quick to switch in on Alolan Sandslash such as Ferroseed and Gurdurr by removing their item, which may prove useful for supporting a teammate. Iron Head threatens to hit certain Fairy- and Rock-types such as Clefairy and Regirock harder than Icicle Crash. Earthquake gives Alolan Sandslash the ability to threaten foes like Togedemaru, Aggron, and Kabutops, all of which would otherwise switch in with few issues aside from taking a Knock Off.

Set Details
========

Maximum investment in Speed and Attack makes Alolan Sandslash as powerful and as fast as possible, with a Jolly nature being used to outspeed Pokemon like Adamant Absol outside of hail. Slush Rush doubles Alolan Sandslash's Speed under hail, which allows it to then outpace the entire unboosted metagame and pose a threat to opposing hail teams. Shuca Berry is the preferred item, since it gives Alolan Sandslash an easier time setting up or removing entry hazards against foes with Ground-type attacks such as Aurorus, Kangaskhan, and opposing Alolan Sandslash as well as against Stealth Rock setters such as Regirock and Golurk. Leftovers can be used instead to prevent Alolan Sandslash from being worn down by entry hazards by granting it a form of passive recovery.

Usage Tips
========

Alolan Sandslash should capitalize on its decently broad coverage, immunity to Toxic Spikes, and advantageous matchup against common Stealth Rock setters, entry hazard removers, and spinblockers by either setting or removing entry hazards on the turn that the aforementioned Pokemon switch out. Because it is holding a Shuca Berry, Alolan Sandslash is also capable of setting Stealth Rock against foes that are reliant on Ground-types attacks to KO it such as Kangaskhan. Knock Off should also be used a lot early-game, since it cripples defensive Pokemon as well as bulkier Pokemon that can otherwise switch in with no qualms like Gurdurr. Switching in on stronger, neutral attacks is ill advised, especially if Alolan Sandslash is a team's only means of entry hazard removal, as this will wear it down faster and leave it incapable of supporting its team as effectively. However, Alolan Sandslash can switch in on Pokemon like physical Skuntank fairly well and use the following turn to its advantage by either setting Stealth Rock or clearing its side of the field. If the opposing team has a hail setter, preserving Alolan Sandslash may prove to be a good idea, since it is still capable of cleaning late-game due to its decent Attack stat and Slush Rush. Be sure to scout for Fire-type coverage from Pokemon that Alolan Sandslash can otherwise switch into, such as Silvally-Fairy, as they will either heavily damage or OHKO it.

Team Options
========

Wallbreakers that appreciate the removal of entry hazards or the potential setting of Stealth Rock like Oricorio-G and Pyroar are good partners, since they can break through physically bulky Pokemon that Alolan Sandslash has issues with such as Kingler. Oricorio-G can also offensively check Fighting-types for Alolan Sandslash, appreciates Pokemon like Lanturn and Probopass being worn down, and can pivot around with U-turn depending on the set. Checks to Fighting-types are very important due to them threatening Alolan Sandslash with 4x super effective STAB moves, so teammates such as Mesprit and Weezing are appreciated. The former in particular is a good teammate, since it can bluff a Stealth Rock set, potentially wallbreak for Alolan Sandslash, and offer useful Healing Wish support, while the latter can wear down Alolan Sandslash's switch-ins with Toxic Spikes. Similarly, checks to Fire-types such as Lanturn and Floatzel are important due to Alolan Sandslash's 4x weakness to their STAB attacks. Note that Floatzel is more of an offensive check to Fire-types. Since Alolan Sandslash has issues with switching directly in on attacks, it appreciates pivots like Eelektross and the previously mentioned Lanturn getting it in for free against Pokemon that they bait in such as Audino. In return, Alolan Sandslash can prevent the two from being worn down too fast by getting rid of entry hazards. Alolan Sandslash can take advantage of opposing Ice-types like Aurorus and non-Focus Blast Jynx, so teammates that are vulnerable to Ice-type attacks such as Lilligant and Oricorio-G appreciate having Alolan Sandslash to fall back on. Alolan Sandslash can also take advantage of the hail that the former sets due to Slush Rush.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

An Adamant nature can be used over Jolly for additional firepower, but this leaves Alolan Sandslash outpaced by foes like Ludicolo outside of hail and by certain Choice Scarf users like Mr. Mime and Primeape under hail. Lum Berry is a viable alternative that allows non-Substitute Alolan Sandslash to ignore a status condition once and have an easier time setting up against bulkier foes such as Weezing. Choice Scarf can be used to lure in and take out faster threats like Pyroar, but Alolan Sandslash's low Speed and only average Attack limit the effectiveness of such a set. Furthermore, none of its attacks are really desirable to be locked into. Toxic can be used to wear bulky Pokemon like defensive Mesprit, Gastrodon, and Pyukumuku down for a teammate, but Alolan Sandslash has trouble finding space for this as well. Fightinium Z in combination with Focus Punch is usable and allows Alolan Sandslash to immediately break through foes such as Ferroseed and non-Fire Punch Munchlax, but Alolan Sandslash already has no problems setting up on these Pokemon because of Substitute.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Fighting-type Attacks**: Fighting-types such as Gurdurr, Hitmonchan, and Primeape can all out force Alolan Sandslash out due to its 4x weakness to their STAB moves, with the former two also threatening Alolan Sandslash with Mach Punch; furthermore, both only need a little bit of prior damage to secure the OHKO. Other Pokemon with Fighting-type coverage such as Stoutland, Zangoose, and Jynx can all give Alolan Sandslash some trouble as well, and though Alolan Sandslash outspeeds all of them under hail, Stoutland and Gurdurr are capable of taking one hit before KOing it. However, +2 Subzero Slammer OHKOes Stoutland and KOes Gurdurr after a bit of prior damage.

**Fire-type Attacks**: Fire-types such as Combusken and Pyroar also give Alolan Sandslash issues, since they all outspeed Alolan Sandslash outside of hail and can OHKO it with Fire Blast. Choice Scarf Pyroar also outspeeds Alolan Sandslash under hail, and Combusken can stall out hail turns with Protect and get progressively faster with Speed Boost. However, none of them appreciate switching in on Earthquake, and all of them are outsped under hail besides Choice Scarf Pyroar. Fire-type coverage from foes such as Mesprit and Weezing can also prove rather annoying.

**Opposing Weather**: Opposing weather setters such as Liepard and Volbeat are annoying for Alolan Sandslash if it is being used on a hail team, since they can set either sun or rain in place of the hail and pivot into a faster Pokemon and revenge kill it. Both can also cripple it with Encore and Thunder Wave even under hail due to Prankster.

**Faster Pokemon**: Alolan Sandslash's average Speed tier leaves it outsped by common offensive Pokemon such as Haunter, Oricorio-G, and Swanna outside of hail. Choice Scarf Manectric outspeeds it even under hail and OHKOes it.

 

[asa]

a

 

[MZ]

[OVERVIEW]

• Due to Slush Rush, Alolan Sandslash is able to outpace the entire unboosted metagame under hail, which in combination with its access to both Swords Dance and fairly high-powered STAB moves in Icicle Crash and Iron Head gives it the ability to be a potent hail sweeper.
• Alolan Sandslash's solid offensive typing gives it the ability to hit almost all of the tier for neutral with its STAB moves alone.
• Its relatively high Defense allows it to stomach neutral hits from Pokemon such as Shiftry, Skuntank, and Togedemaru and retaliate with a much stronger attack, which can make revenge killing it difficult.
• Alolan Sandslash also has access to solid support options in Stealth Rock and Rapid Spin, and its positive matchup against common entry hazard setters, removers, and spinblockers helps it perform these roles rather well.
• While not the best defensively, its typing does allow Alolan Sandslash to switch into Ice-, Fairy-, Normal-, and Psychic-type attacks from Pokemon such as Jynx, Clefairy, Type: Null, and Mesprit.
• However, its typing burdens it with two crippling 4x weaknesses to Fighting and Fire, two common attack typings in the tier.
• Alolan Sandslash's damage output can prove to be rather disappointing if it hasn't used Swords Dance, and it can struggle with doing so because of its only decent bulk.
• Finally, Alolan Sandslash's average Speed tier leaves it outsped and easily revenge killed by common offensive Pokemon like Primeape outside of hail.

[SET]
name: Hail Sweeper
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Icicle Crash
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Substitute / Iron Head
item: Icium Z / Shuca Berry
ability: Slush Rush
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

• Swords Dance doubles Alolan Sandslash's Attack stat, making its attacks harder to switch in on and allowing it to break through bulky Pokemon like Gurdurr.
• Icicle Crash is Alolan Sandslash's strongest and most reliable Ice-type STAB move, threatening to hit foes such as Gourgeist-XL and Palossand for super effective damage.
• Earthquake gives Alolan Sandslash coverage for foes that resist its dual STAB combination like Lanturn, Togedemaru, and Fire-types such as Magmortar and Pyroar, and it also hits Pokemon like Aggron harder than any of its other attacks.
• Substitute gives Alolan Sandslash an easier time setting up, allowing it to take advantage of Pokemon like Ferroseed and Weezing, while also guarding it from status conditions.
• Iron Head is its secondary STAB move, allowing it to hit Ice-resistant foes such as Miltank "ice resistant foes" is a bit general just bc most of them are weak to eq harder than any of its other moves, while also being a more reliable attack to hit Fairy-types like Clefairy and Silvally-Fairy.

Set Details
========

• The investment in Attack and Speed maximizes Alolan Sandslash's offensive presence while also making it as fast it possibly can be, with a Jolly nature being used to outspeed Choice Scarf users such as Jynx and Primeape under hail.
• Slush Rush doubles Alolan Sandslash's Speed under hail, which allows it to outspeed the entire unboosted metagame, and even some of the boosted metagame. why isnt this just mentioned in the previous sentence
• Icium Z turns Icicle Crash into Subzero Slammer, which can be used to break through very physically bulky Pokemon like Gastrodon and Weezing at +2.
• Shuca Berry is an alternative that reduces the damage dealt by Ground-type attacks from Pokemon such as Archeops, Kangaskhan, and Palossand, which gives it an easier time setting up against them. it's rly more about providing some defensive utility against the first 2 (especially if hail goes away) than giving u setup chances with hail
• Life Orb can also be used to increase Alolan Sandslash's damage output if its team already has a Z-Move user, but this does come with the drawback of recoil damage.

Usage Tips
========

• Alolan Sandslash should aim to use Substitute on Pokemon that it will force out under hail such as Lilligant and Oricorio-G, as this shields it from status conditions and makes setting up with Swords Dance easier.
• Swords Dance should mainly be used when up against bulkier teams, since it allows Alolan Sandslash to break through typical checks. Against more offensive teams, it may not always be necessary to do so.
• It is advised to wait until very physically bulky Pokemon like Weezing have been weakened or removed to begin attempting a sweep, as this lessens the need for Alolan Sandslash to use its Z-Move if it is running it and allows it to preserve it if Subzero Slammer is needed to break through another foe. However, Alolan Sandslash is also capable of serving as a wallbreaker that can pave the way for a teammate to sweep.
• Waiting for Mach Punch users such as Gurdurr to be removed is also important, since they can quickly put an end to Alolan Sandslash's late-game sweep.
• Avoid switching Alolan Sandslash directly in on attacks, especially special attacks, as this will shorten its longevity and make sweeping more difficult.
• Once the hail turns have expired, it is recommended to switch Alolan Sandslash out due to how easy it is to offensively pressure it outside of hail. eh i think u undersell it a bit w/out hail, still some aight defensive utility for things like mesprit, even more utility if shuca, u can still drop a z move on somth, it's not all bad

Team Options
========

• Hail setters such as Abomasnow and Aurorus are indispensable teammates, as Slush Rush is one of the main things that make Alolan Sandslash as threatening as it is. Both can wallbreak for Alolan Sandslash, with Aurorus even being able to potentially provide Stealth Rock support and generate free setup turns with Encore, while Alolan Sandslash can break through specially defensive Pokemon like Clefairy.
• Since Fighting-types threaten Alolan Sandslash with strong, 4x effective attacks, checks to them are a necessity; Pokemon such as Mesprit, Spiritomb with Psychic, and Swanna perform this role well, with Mesprit also offering a slow U-turn and Healing Wish support, and Swanna offensively checking Fire-types as well.
• Checks to Fire-types are also important for the same reason, so Pokemon such as Clefairy and Lanturn are good teammates. Clefairy is also capable of setting Stealth Rock, while Lanturn can bring Alolan Sandslash safely into play with Volt Switch, and both can further wear down some of Alolan Sandslash's switch-ins with Toxic.
• Fighting-types like Gurdurr appreciate Alolan Sandslash taking care of both their defensive and offensive checks, and can have an easier time sweeping late-game because of this. Gurdurr also provides useful Knock Off support.
• Special wallbreakers such as the two previously mentioned hail setters, Haunter, and Pyroar are appreciated due to their ability to either heavily pressure or outright KO most physical walls that Alolan Sandslash has problems bypassing. In return, Alolan Sandslash can handle specially bulky Pokemon like Audino and Carbink.
• Entry hazard support from the likes of Clefairy, Ferroseed, and Mesprit is also appreciated, since it wears physically bulky Pokemon down faster and makes cleaning up easier.

[SET]
name: Offensive Support
move 1: Rapid Spin / Stealth Rock
move 2: Icicle Crash
move 3: Knock Off / Iron Head
move 4: Earthquake
item: Shuca Berry
ability: Slush Rush
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

• Rapid Spin clears entry hazards from Alolan Sandslash's side of the field, which can prove useful for maintaining the longevity of its teammates while not compromising any potential entry hazards that its team may set.
• Alternatively, Stealth Rock can be used to pressure opposing teams by wearing foes down every time they switch in.
• Icicle Crash is a strong Ice-type STAB move that deals heavy damage to common spinblockers such as Golurk and Palossand, on top of hitting certain Defog users like Shiftry and Togetic for super effective damage.
• Knock Off cripples bulkier Pokemon that are quick to switch in on Alolan Sandslash such as Ferroseed and Gurdurr by removing their item, which may prove useful for supporting a teammate.
• Iron Head threatens Ice-resistant foes such as Miltank and hits Fairy- and Rock-types such as Clefairy and Regirock harder than Icicle Crash.
• Earthquake gives Alolan Sandslash the ability to threaten foes like Aggron, Lanturn, Probopass, and Pyroar; all of which would otherwise switch in with few issues.

Set Details
========

• Maximum investment in Speed and Attack make Alolan Sandslash as powerful and as fast as possible, with a Jolly nature being used to outspeed Pokemon like Adamant Absol and Modest Claydol outside of hail.
• Slush Rush doubles Alolan Sandslash's Speed under hail, which allows it to then outpace the entire unboosted metagame and pose a threat to opposing hail teams.
• Shuca Berry is the preferred item since it gives Alolan Sandslash an easier time setting up or removing entry hazards against foes with Ground-type attacks such as Archeops, Kangaskhan, and opposing Alolan Sandslash.

Usage Tips
========

• Alolan Sandslash should capitalize on its decently broad coverage and advantageous matchup against common Stealth Rock setters, entry hazard removers, and spinblockers by either setting or removing entry hazards on the turn that the aforementioned Pokemon switch out.
• Switching in on stronger, neutral attacks is ill-advised, especially if it is a team's only means of entry hazard removal, as this will wear it down faster and leave it incapable of supporting its team as effectively.
• However, Alolan Sandslash can switch in on Pokemon such as Aurorus and physical Skuntank fairly well and use the following turn to its advantage by either setting Stealth Rock or clearing its side of the field.
• If the opposing team has a hail setter, preserving Alolan Sandslash may prove to be a good idea, since it is still capable of cleaning late-game due to its decent Attack stat and Slush Rush.

id put somth about scouting and being careful of potential HP fire users, like normally it's a fine switchin to mesprit but they run it for ferroseed and it's not alolaslash's fault and he's trying really hard

Team Options
========

• Wallbreakers that appreciate the removal of entry hazards, or the potential setting of Stealth Rock, such as Archeops, Magmortar, and Pyroar are good partners, since they can break through physically bulky Pokemon that Alolan Sandslash has issues with such as Kingler. Archeops can even offensively check Fighting-types for Alolan Sandslash.
• Checks to Fighting-types are very important due to them threatening Alolan Sandslash with 4x effective STAB moves, so teammates such as Mesprit and Oricorio-G are appreciated. Mesprit in particular is a good teammate, since it can bluff a Stealth Rock set, potentially wallbreak for Alolan Sandslash, and offer useful Healing Wish support.
• Similarly, checks to Fire-types are important due to Alolan Sandslash being 4x weak to their STAB attacks, so Pokemon such as Floatzel and Lanturn are good teammates. In return, Alolan Sandslash can heavily damage Eelektross, a Pokemon that they both struggle with.
• Since Alolan Sandslash has issues with switching directly in on attacks, it appreciates pivots like Eelektross and the previously mentioned Lanturn getting it in for free against Pokemon that they bait in such as Audino. In return, Alolan Sandslash can prevent the two from being worn down too fast by getting rid of entry hazards.
• Alolan Sandslash can take advantage of opposing Ice-types like Aurorus and non-Focus Blast Jynx, so teammates that are vulnerable to Ice-type attacks such as Lilligant and Oricorio-G appreciate having Alolan Sandslash to fall back on.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

• Adamant can be used over Jolly for additional firepower, but this leaves Alolan Sandslash outpaced by foes such as Abomasnow and Ludicolo outside of hail, and certain Choice Scarf users like Mr. Mime and Primeape outspeeding it under hail.
• Lum Berry is a viable alternative that allows Alolan Sandslash to ignore a status condition once and have an easier time setting up against bulkier foes such as Sableye and Weezing.
• Choice Scarf can be used to make Alolan Sandslash more of a revenge killer, but its low Speed and only average Attack limit the effectiveness of such a set. Furthermore, none of its attacks are really desirable to be locked into.
• Toxic can be used to wear bulky Pokemon like defensive Mesprit, Gastrodon, and Pyukumuku down for a teammate, but it has trouble finding space for this as well.

ik some people have run z-focus punch, honestly it's fairly shit but ig some mention of the potential of a fightinium z set is worth putting here even if u can just sub up on ferro

Checks and Counters
===================

**Fighting-type Attacks**: Fighting-types such as Gurdurr, Hitmonchan, and Primeape can all out force Alolan Sandslash out due to its 4x weakness to their STAB moves, with the former two also threatening Alolan Sandslash with Mach Punch; furthermore, both only needed a little bit of prior damage to secure the OHKO. Other Pokemon with Fighting-type coverage such as Stoutland, Zangoose, and Jynx can all give Alolan Sandslash some trouble as well, but it outspeeds all of them under hail, and none of them appreciate switching in.

**Fire-type Attacks**: Fire-types such as Combusken, Magmortar, and Pyroar also give Alolan Sandslash issues since they all outspeed Alolan Sandslash outside of hail and can OHKO it with Fire Blast. None of them appreciate switching in on Earthquake, though. Fire-type coverage from foes such as Mesprit and Weezing can also prove rather annoying.

**Opposing Weather**: Opposing weather setters such as Liepard and Volbeat are annoying for Alolan Sandslash if it is being used on a hail team, since they can set either sun or rain in place of the hail and pivot into a Chlorophyll or Swift Swim user and revenge kill it. Both can also cripple it with Encore and Thunder Wave even under hail due to Prankster.

**Faster Pokemon**: Alolan Sandslash's average Speed tier leaves it outsped by common offensive Pokemon such as Haunter, Oricorio-G, and Swanna outside of hail. While there's not much that can outspeed it under hail, certain Choice Scarf users like Pyroar can outspeed it and threaten to KO it.

2/3

 

[yogi]

[OVERVIEW]

• Due to Slush Rush, Alolan Sandslash is able to outpace the entire unboosted metagame under hail, which in combination with its access to both Swords Dance and fairly high-powered STAB moves in Icicle Crash and Iron Head gives it the ability to be a potent hail sweeper.
• Alolan Sandslash's solid offensive typing gives it the ability to hit almost all of the tier for neutral with its STAB moves alone.
• Its relatively high Defense allows it to stomach neutral hits from Pokemon such as Shiftry, Skuntank, and Togedemaru and retaliate with a much stronger attack, which can make revenge killing it difficult. (specifically physical skuntank, i'd definitely make that point) (does well against all forms of priority bar mach punch meaning it's rather difficult to revenge kill that way) (calculate how much leaf storm from shiftry does to it, just interested)
• Alolan Sandslash also has access to solid support options in Stealth Rock and Rapid Spin and its positive matchup against common entry hazard setters, removers, and spinblockers helps it perform these roles rather well. (just give a few standard metagame examples here) (why does it have a positive match up, mentioning typing and even speed tier in this circumstance)
• While not the best defensively, its typing does allow Alolan Sandslash to switch into Ice-, Fairy-, Normal-, and Psychic-type attacks from Pokemon such as Jynx, Clefairy, Type: Null, and Mesprit. (defensive mesprit, offensive isn't something you ever want to switch in against) (i'd also say non choice scarf jynx)
• may be abstract but, alolan sandslash actually function reasonably well on both rain and sun teams as a countermeasure to hail setters like aurorus and abomasnow, which mess up these kinds of teams pretty hard; especially the scarf versions
• However, its typing burdens it with two crippling 4x weaknesses to Fighting and Fire, two common attack typings in the tier. (last bit doesn't quite make sense. basically pretty common coverage and mons)
• Alolan Sandslash's damage output can prove to be rather disappointing if it hasn't used Swords Dance, with which it can struggle doing because of its only decent bulk. (physical bulk. special bulk is pretty darn awful actually)
• Finally, Alolan Sandslash's average Speed tier leaves it outsped and easily revenge killed by common offensive Pokemon like Primeape outside of hail. (mention something closer to its speed tier)

[SET]
name: Hail Sweeper
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Icicle Crash
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Substitute / Iron Head
item: Icium Z / Shuca Berry
ability: Slush Rush
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

• Swords Dance doubles Alolan Sandslash's Attack stat, making its attacks harder to switch in on and allowing it to break through bulky Pokemon like Gurdurr. (only if you're using icium z, and even then gurdurr is one of the best checks to offensive alolan sandslash)
• Icicle Crash is Alolan Sandslash's strongest and most reliable Ice-type STAB move, threatening to hit foes such as Gourgeist-XL and Palossand for super effective damage. (move gourgeist-xl to the sub bullet point) (have to be boosted to break palossand)
• Earthquake gives Alolan Sandslash coverage for foes that resist its dual STAB combination like Lanturn, Togedemaru, and Fire-types such as Magmortar and Pyroar, and it also hits Pokemon like Aggron harder than any of its other attacks. (unsure about togedemaru mention. i think something like probopass would be better because it can actually do something back to you)
• Substitute gives Alolan Sandslash an easier time setting up, allowing it to take advantage of Pokemon like Ferroseed and Weezing, while also guarding it from status conditions. (does gyro break the sub? if not then keep ferroseed)
• Iron Head is an alternative secondary STAB move, allowing it to hit certain Ice-resistant foes such as Miltank harder than any of its other moves, while also being a more reliable attack to hit Fairy-types like Clefairy and Silvally-Fairy. (clefairy kinda already loses to swords dance plus ice crash anyhow)

Set Details
========

• The investment in Attack and Speed maximizes Alolan Sandslash's offensive presence while also making it as fast it possibly can be, with a Jolly nature being used to outspeed Choice Scarf users such as Jynx and Primeape under hail due to Slush Rush.
• Icium Z turns Icicle Crash into Subzero Slammer, which can be used to break through very physically bulky Pokemon like Gastrodon and Weezing at +2. (meh to mentioning weezing, as you've already said that substitute beats it 1v1)
• Shuca Berry is an alternative that reduces the damage dealt by Ground-type attacks from Pokemon such as Archeops and Kangaskhan, which prevents it from being overwhelmed by them outside of hail.
• Life Orb can also be used to increase Alolan Sandslash's damage output if its team already has a Z-Move user, but this does come with the drawback of recoil damage. (maybe mention that if you decide to use life orb, that iron head is better used over substitute?)

Usage Tips
========

• Alolan Sandslash should aim to use Substitute on Pokemon that it will force out under hail such as Lilligant and Oricorio-G, as this shields it from status conditions and makes setting up with Swords Dance easier. (can scout and such, also could just straight swords dance)
• Swords Dance should mainly be used when up against bulkier teams, since it allows Alolan Sandslash to break through typical checks. Against more offensive teams, it may not always be necessary to do so. (though it does make them easier to sweep if you get the chance to)
• It is advised to wait until very physically bulky Pokemon like Weezing have been weakened or removed to begin attempting a sweep, as this lessens the need for Alolan Sandslash to use its Z-Move if it is running it and allows it to preserve it if Subzero Slammer is needed to break through another foe. However, Alolan Sandslash is also capable of serving as a wallbreaker that can pave the way for a teammate to sweep. (again, doesn't substitute kinda just beat weezing regardless?)
• Waiting for Mach Punch users such as Gurdurr to be removed is also important, since they can quickly put an end to Alolan Sandslash's late-game sweep.
• Avoid switching Alolan Sandslash directly in on attacks, especially special attacks, as this will shorten its longevity and make sweeping more difficult. (can be switched in to weak attacks from the likes of togedemaru though)
• something on if it's using life orb that it should be careful about the opponent pivoting to wear it down
• can still use its z move and sd to wallbreak outside of hail too
• small point on the fact the opponent doesn't know if you're z move or shuca berry, and this can be used to your advantage

Team Options
========

• Hail setters such as Abomasnow and Aurorus are indispensable teammates, as Slush Rush is one of the main things that make Alolan Sandslash as threatening as it is. Both can wallbreak for Alolan Sandslash with the latter being able to potentially provide Stealth Rock support and generate free setup turns with Encore, while Alolan Sandslash can break through specially defensive Pokemon like Clefairy.
• Since Fighting-types threaten Alolan Sandslash with strong, 4x super effective attacks, checks to them are a necessity; Pokemon such as Mesprit, Spiritomb with Psychic, and Swanna perform this role well, with Mesprit also offering a slow U-turn and Healing Wish support and Swanna offensively checking Fire-types as well. (i'd probably just explain why spiritomb has psychic, as it's only for gurdurr)
• Checks to Fire-types are also important for the same reason, so Pokemon such as Clefairy and Lanturn are good teammates. Clefairy is also capable of setting Stealth Rock, while Lanturn can bring Alolan Sandslash safely into play with Volt Switch, and both can further wear down some of Alolan Sandslash's switch-ins with Toxic.
• Fighting-types like Gurdurr appreciate Alolan Sandslash taking care of both their defensive and offensive checks, and can have an easier time sweeping late-game because of this. Gurdurr also provides useful Knock Off support. (mention the things that alolan sandslash actually beat for them)
• Special wallbreakers such as the two previously mentioned hail setters, Haunter, and Pyroar are appreciated due to their ability to either heavily pressure or outright KO most physical walls that Alolan Sandslash has problems bypassing. In return, Alolan Sandslash can handle specially bulky Pokemon like Audino and Carbink.
• Entry hazard support from the likes of Clefairy, Ferroseed, and Mesprit is also appreciated, since it wears physically bulky Pokemon down faster and makes cleaning up easier. (you've legit already explained these pokemon above. i also wouldn't have ferroseed and a hail setter and sandslash on the same team, too many stacked weaknesses)

[SET]
name: Offensive Support
move 1: Rapid Spin / Stealth Rock
move 2: Icicle Crash
move 3: Knock Off / Iron Head
move 4: Earthquake
item: Shuca Berry
ability: Slush Rush
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

• Rapid Spin clears entry hazards from Alolan Sandslash's side of the field, which can prove useful for maintaining the longevity of its teammates while not compromising any potential entry hazards that its team may set. (immune to toxic spikes)
• Alternatively, Stealth Rock can be used to pressure opposing teams by wearing foes down every time they switch in.
• Icicle Crash is a strong Ice-type STAB move that deals heavy damage to common spinblockers such as Golurk and Palossand, on top of hitting certain Defog users like Shiftry and Togetic for super effective damage.
• Knock Off cripples bulkier Pokemon that are quick to switch in on Alolan Sandslash such as Ferroseed and Gurdurr by removing their item, which may prove useful for supporting a teammate. (can also scout for z moves in theory too)
• Iron Head threatens Ice-resistant foes such as Miltank and hits Fairy- and Rock-types such as Clefairy and Regirock harder than Icicle Crash. (with swords dance this point was fine but miltank just kinda beats you)
• Earthquake gives Alolan Sandslash the ability to threaten foes like Aggron, Lanturn, Probopass, and Pyroar; all of which would otherwise switch in with few issues. (besides getting knocked off)

Set Details
========

• Maximum investment in Speed and Attack make Alolan Sandslash as powerful and as fast as possible, with a Jolly nature being used to outspeed Pokemon like Adamant Absol and Modest Claydol outside of hail. (modest claydol will not be a thing)
• Slush Rush doubles Alolan Sandslash's Speed under hail, which allows it to then outpace the entire unboosted metagame and pose a threat to opposing hail teams.
• Shuca Berry is the preferred item, since it gives Alolan Sandslash an easier time setting up or removing entry hazards against foes with Ground-type attacks such as Archeops, Kangaskhan, and opposing Alolan Sandslash. (better match up against stealth rock setters too)
• leftovers

Usage Tips
========

• Alolan Sandslash should capitalize on its decently broad coverage and advantageous matchup against common Stealth Rock setters, entry hazard removers, and spinblockers by either setting or removing entry hazards on the turn that the aforementioned Pokemon switch out.
• Switching in on stronger, neutral attacks is ill-advised, especially if Alolan Sandslash is a team's only means of entry hazard removal, as this will wear it down faster and leave it incapable of supporting its team as effectively.
• However, Alolan Sandslash can switch in on Pokemon such as Aurorus and physical Skuntank fairly well and use the following turn to its advantage by either setting Stealth Rock or clearing its side of the field.
• If the opposing team has a hail setter, preserving Alolan Sandslash may prove to be a good idea, since it is still capable of cleaning late-game due to its decent Attack stat and Slush Rush.
• Be sure to scout for Fire-type coverage from Pokemon that Alolan Sandslash can otherwise switch into, such as Mesprit, as they will either heavily damage or OHKO it. (mesprit if it's offensive will 2hko you with psychic iirc)

this section is kinda fine but i think it needs refined a little. mention it setting a bit more, knock off, immunity to toxic spikes, etc.

Team Options
========

• Wallbreakers that appreciate the removal of entry hazards, or the potential setting of Stealth Rock, such as Archeops, Magmortar, and Pyroar are good partners, since they can break through physically bulky Pokemon that Alolan Sandslash has issues with such as Kingler. Archeops can also offensively check Fighting-types for Alolan Sandslash.
• Checks to Fighting-types are very important due to them threatening Alolan Sandslash with 4x super effective STAB moves, so teammates such as Mesprit and Oricorio-G are appreciated. Mesprit in particular is a good teammate, since it can bluff a Stealth Rock set, potentially wallbreak for Alolan Sandslash, and offer useful Healing Wish support. (depending on the set, oricorio-g can pivot around for alolan sandslash or capitalise on having things like lanturn and probopass weakened)
• Similarly, checks to Fire-types are important due to Alolan Sandslash being 4x weak to their STAB attacks, so Pokemon such as Floatzel and Lanturn are good teammates. In return, Alolan Sandslash can heavily damage Eelektross, a Pokemon that they both struggle with. (floatzel is an offensive check, so make that obvious) (alolan sandslash isn't a good way to chip eel because of flamethrower)
• Since Alolan Sandslash has issues with switching directly in on attacks, it appreciates pivots like Eelektross and the previously mentioned Lanturn getting it in for free against Pokemon that they bait in such as Audino. In return, Alolan Sandslash can prevent the two from being worn down too fast by getting rid of entry hazards.
• Alolan Sandslash can take advantage of opposing Ice-types like Aurorus and non-Focus Blast Jynx, so teammates that are vulnerable to Ice-type attacks such as Lilligant and Oricorio-G appreciate having Alolan Sandslash to fall back on. (gets the speed boost thanks to the opposing aurorus setting hail too)

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

• Adamant can be used over Jolly for additional firepower, but this leaves Alolan Sandslash outpaced by foes such as Abomasnow and Ludicolo outside of hail, and certain Choice Scarf users like Mr. Mime and Primeape outspeeding it under hail. (only swords dance abomasnow with soundproof o.o it still sets hail for you lol)
• Lum Berry is a viable alternative that allows Alolan Sandslash to ignore a status condition once and have an easier time setting up against bulkier foes such as Sableye and Weezing. (you kinda already lose to sableye and substitute beats weezing anyhow)
• Choice Scarf can be used to make Alolan Sandslash more of a revenge killer, but its low Speed and only average Attack limit the effectiveness of such a set. Furthermore, none of its attacks are really desirable to be locked into. (less revenge killer, more bad lure)
• Toxic can be used to wear bulky Pokemon like defensive Mesprit, Gastrodon, and Pyukumuku down for a teammate, but it has trouble finding space for this as well.
• Fightinium Z in combination with Focus Punch is usable and allows Alolan Sandslash to immediately break through foes such as Ferroseed, Miltank, and Munchlax, but Alolan Sandslash already has no problems setting up on these Pokemon because of Substitute.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Fighting-type Attacks**: Fighting-types such as Gurdurr, Hitmonchan, and Primeape can all out force Alolan Sandslash out due to its 4x weakness to their STAB moves, with the former two also threatening Alolan Sandslash with Mach Punch; furthermore, both only needed a little bit of prior damage to secure the OHKO. Other Pokemon with Fighting-type coverage such as Stoutland, Zangoose, and Jynx can all give Alolan Sandslash some trouble as well, though it outspeeds all of them under hail and none of them appreciate switching in. (both gurdurr and stoutland can take a hit from it however)

**Fire-type Attacks**: Fire-types such as Combusken, Magmortar, and Pyroar also give Alolan Sandslash issues since they all outspeed Alolan Sandslash outside of hail and can OHKO it with Fire Blast. None of them appreciate switching in on Earthquake, though. Fire-type coverage from foes such as Mesprit and Weezing can also prove rather annoying. (they all lose to it under hail) (combusken can stall out hail turns with protect) (scarf pyroar outspeeds you too, even with hail up)

**Opposing Weather**: Opposing weather setters such as Liepard and Volbeat are annoying for Alolan Sandslash if it is being used on a hail team, since they can set either sun or rain in place of the hail and pivot into a Chlorophyll or Swift Swim user and revenge kill it. Both can also cripple it with Encore and Thunder Wave even under hail due to Prankster.

**Faster Pokemon**: Alolan Sandslash's average Speed tier leaves it outsped by common offensive Pokemon such as Haunter, Oricorio-G, and Swanna outside of hail. While there's not much that can outspeed it under hail, certain Choice Scarf users like Pyroar can outspeed it and threaten to KO it. (i'm certain choice scarf pyroar is the only relevant one actually)

Looks aight. QC 2/3. Get this written up.

 

[asa]

finally did this, writing up

 

[UberSkitty]

[QC Checks: Megazard / yogibears / ?]
[GP Checks: ? / ?]

[OVERVIEW]

Due to Slush Rush, Alolan Sandslash is able to outpace the entire unboosted metagame under hail, which in combination with its access to both Swords Dance and fairly high-powered STAB moves in Icicle Crash and Iron Head gives it the ability to be a potent hail sweeper. Alolan Sandslash's solid offensive typing gives it the ability to hit almost all of the tier for neutral with its STAB moves alone, and its relatively high Defense allows it to stomach neutral hits from Pokemon such as physical Skuntank and Togedemaru as well as most forms of priority sans Mach Punch and retaliate with a much stronger attack, which can make revenge killing it difficult. Alolan Sandslash also has access to solid support options in Stealth Rock and Rapid Spin and its typing and Speed tier under hail (I wouldn't depend on that set being under Hail)giving it a positive matchup against common entry hazard setters, removers, and spinblockers such as Golurk, Swanna, and Oricorio-G helps it perform these roles rather well. While not the best defensively, its typing does allow Alolan Sandslash to switch into Ice-, Fairy-, Normal-, and Psychic-type attacks from Pokemon such as non-Choice Scarf Jynx, Clefairy, Type: Null, and defensive Mesprit. However, its typing burdens it with two crippling 4x weaknesses to Fighting and Fire which are common Pokemon and coverage typings.(such as?) Alolan Sandslash's damage output can prove to be rather disappointing if it hasn't used Swords Dance, with which it can struggle doing because of its only decent physical bulk (Its physical bulk is actually p good, maybe mention its typing over it)and poor special bulk. Finally, Alolan Sandslash's average Speed tier leaves it outsped and easily revenge killed by common offensive Pokemon like Kingler outside of hail.

[SET]
name: Hail Sweeper
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Icicle Crash
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Substitute / Iron Head
item: Icium Z / Shuca Berry
ability: Slush Rush
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Swords Dance doubles Alolan Sandslash's Attack stat, making its attacks harder to switch in on and allowing it to break through bulkier Pokemon more easily.(Allowing it to more easily sweep) Icicle Crash is Alolan Sandslash's strongest and most reliable Ice-type STAB move, threatening to hit foes such as Torterra for super effective damage. Earthquake gives Alolan Sandslash coverage for foes that resist its dual STAB combination like Lanturn, Probopass(Technically doesn't resist Steel), and Fire-types such as Pyroar(Wouldn't this fall under the "resists both STABs" section?), and it also hits Pokemon like Aggron harder than any of its other attacks. Substitute gives Alolan Sandslash an easier time setting up, allowing it to take advantage of Pokemon like Gourgeist-XL and Weezing, while also guarding it from status conditions. (Also makes it harder to revenge kill outside of Hail)Iron Head is an alternative secondary STAB move, allowing it to hit certain Ice-resistant foes such as Munchlax harder than any of its other moves while also being a more reliable attack to hit Fairy-types like Silvally-Fairy.

Set Details
========

The investment in Attack and Speed maximizes Alolan Sandslash's offensive presence while also making it as fast it possibly can be, with a Jolly nature being used to outspeed Choice Scarf users such as Jynx and Primeape under hail due to Slush Rush. (What does Slush Rush do?)Icium Z turns Icicle Crash into Subzero Slammer, which can be used to break through very physically bulky Pokemon like Gastrodon at +2. Shuca Berry is an alternative that reduces the damage dealt by Ground-type attacks from Pokemon such as Kangaskhan, which prevents it from being overwhelmed by them outside of hail. Life Orb can also be used to increase Alolan Sandslash's damage output if its team already has a Z-Move user, but this does come with the drawback of recoil damage. Iron Head should be used over Substitute if opting for Life Orb, since this limits the amount of HP that Alolan Sandslash will lose.

Usage Tips
========

Alolan Sandslash should aim to use Substitute on Pokemon that it will force out under hail such as Lilligant and Oricorio-G, as this shields it from status conditions, allows it to scout, and makes setting up with Swords Dance easier. It can also use Swords Dance against these Pokemon if it is necessary to break through a bulkier foe. Swords Dance should mainly be used when up against bulkier teams, since it allows Alolan Sandslash to break through typical checks. Against more offensive teams, it may not always be necessary to do so, though it does make sweeping easier if it gets the chance to do so. It is advised to wait until very physically bulky Pokemon like Weezing have been weakened or removed to begin attempting a sweep if Alolan Sandslash isn't running Substitute, as this lessens the need for it to use its Z-Move if it is running it and allows it to preserve it if Subzero Slammer is needed to break through another foe. However, Alolan Sandslash is also capable of serving as a wallbreaker that can pave the way for a teammate to sweep. Waiting for Mach Punch users such as Gurdurr to be removed is also important, since they can quickly put an end to Alolan Sandslash's late-game sweep. Avoid switching Alolan Sandslash directly in on attacks, especially special attacks, as this will shorten its longevity and make sweeping more difficult. However, it can be switched in on weaker attacks from Pokemon such as Togedemaru. Despite excelling under hail, Alolan Sandslash is still capable of setting up and breaking with Icium Z outside of it. Life Orb variants of Alolan Sandslash should avoid simply using attacks against teams, since they can just pivot around and let the recoil work against it until it can be picked off by a priority move. Use the fact that it can be rather difficult to discern what item Alolan Sandslash is holding to your advantage by setting up on Pokemon like Kangaskhan as they are forced out.

Team Options
========

Hail setters such as Abomasnow and Aurorus are indispensable teammates, as Slush Rush is one of the main things that make Alolan Sandslash as threatening as it is. Both can wallbreak for Alolan Sandslash with the latter being able to potentially provide Stealth Rock support and generate free setup turns with Encore, while Alolan Sandslash can break through specially defensive Pokemon like Clefairy. Since Fighting-types threaten Alolan Sandslash with strong, 4x super effective attacks, checks to them are a necessity; Pokemon such as Mesprit, Spiritomb with Psychic, and Swanna perform this role well, with Mesprit also offering a slow U-turn and Healing Wish support, Spiritomb luring in Gurdurr, and Swanna offensively checking Fire-types as well. Checks to Fire-types are also important for the same reason, so Pokemon such as Clefairy and Lanturn are good teammates. Clefairy is also capable of setting Stealth Rock, while Lanturn can bring Alolan Sandslash safely into play with Volt Switch, and both can further wear down some of Alolan Sandslash's switch-ins with Toxic. Fighting-types like Gurdurr appreciate Alolan Sandslash taking care of both their defensive and offensive checks like Weezing and Oricorio-G, and can have an easier time sweeping late-game because of this. Gurdurr also provides useful Knock Off support.(What does it help against?) Special wallbreakers such as the two previously mentioned hail setters, Haunter, and Pyroar are appreciated due to their ability to either heavily pressure or outright KO most physical walls that Alolan Sandslash has problems bypassing. In return, Alolan Sandslash can handle specially bulky Pokemon like Audino and Carbink.

[SET]
name: Offensive Support
move 1: Rapid Spin / Stealth Rock
move 2: Icicle Crash
move 3: Knock Off / Iron Head
move 4: Earthquake
item: Shuca Berry
ability: Slush Rush
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Rapid Spin clears entry hazards from Alolan Sandslash's side of the field, which can prove useful for maintaining the longevity of its teammates while not compromising any potential entry hazards that its team may set. Alolan Sandslash's immunity to Toxic Spikes and neutrality to Stealth Rock also help it perform this role rather well.(This seems like more of an overview detail) Alternatively, Stealth Rock can be used to pressure opposing teams by wearing foes down every time they switch in. Icicle Crash is a strong Ice-type STAB move that deals heavy damage to common spinblockers such as Golurk and Oricorio-G, on top of hitting certain Defog users like Shiftry and Togetic for super effective damage. Knock Off cripples bulkier Pokemon that are quick to switch in on Alolan Sandslash such as Ferroseed and Gurdurr by removing their item, which may prove useful for supporting a teammate. Iron Head threatens to hit certain Fairy- and Rock-types such as Clefairy and Regirock harder than Icicle Crash. Earthquake gives Alolan Sandslash the ability to threaten foes like Aggron, Lanturn, Probopass, and Pyroar, (Maybe some new examples, cuz these are the exact same as last time)all of which would otherwise switch in with few issues aside from taking a Knock Off.

Set Details
========

Maximum investment in Speed and Attack make Alolan Sandslash as powerful and as fast as possible, with a Jolly nature being used to outspeed Pokemon like Adamant Absol outside of hail. Slush Rush doubles Alolan Sandslash's Speed under hail, which allows it to then outpace the entire unboosted metagame and pose a threat to opposing hail teams. Shuca Berry is the preferred item, since it gives Alolan Sandslash an easier time setting up or removing entry hazards against foes with Ground-type attacks such as Aurorus, Kangaskhan, and opposing Alolan Sandslash as well as against Stealth Rock setters such as Regirock and Golurk. Leftovers can be used instead to give Alolan Sandslash more defensive presence by granting it a form of passive recovery.(Also lets it not be worn down by hazards)

Usage Tips
========

Alolan Sandslash should capitalize on its decently broad coverage, immunity to Toxic Spikes, and advantageous matchup against common Stealth Rock setters, entry hazard removers, and spinblockers by either setting or removing entry hazards on the turn that the aforementioned Pokemon switch out. Because it is holding a Shuca Berry, Alolan Sandslash is also capable of setting Stealth Rock against foes that are reliant on Ground-types attacks to KO it such as Kangaskhan. Knock Off should also be used a lot early-game, since it cripples defensive Pokemon as well as bulkier Pokemon that can otherwise switch in with no qualms like Gurdurr. Switching in on stronger, neutral attacks is ill-advised, especially if Alolan Sandslash is a team's only means of entry hazard removal, as this will wear it down faster and leave it incapable of supporting its team as effectively. However, Alolan Sandslash can switch in on Pokemon such as Aurorus and physical Skuntank fairly well and use the following turn to its advantage by either setting Stealth Rock or clearing its side of the field. (Has to watch out for Earth Power from Aurorus even with Shuca)If the opposing team has a hail setter, preserving Alolan Sandslash may prove to be a good idea, since it is still capable of cleaning late-game due to its decent Attack stat and Slush Rush. Be sure to scout for Fire-type coverage from Pokemon that Alolan Sandslash can otherwise switch into, such as Silvally-Fairy, as they will either heavily damage or OHKO it.

Team Options
========

Wallbreakers that appreciate the removal of entry hazards, or the potential setting of Stealth Rock, like Oricorio-G and Pyroar are good partners, since they can break through physically bulky Pokemon that Alolan Sandslash has issues with such as Kingler. Oricorio-G can also offensively check Fighting-types for Alolan Sandslash. Checks to Fighting-types are very important due to them threatening Alolan Sandslash with 4x super effective STAB moves, so teammates such as Mesprit and Oricorio-G (You already mentioned Oricorio)are appreciated. The former in particular is a good teammate, since it can bluff a Stealth Rock set, potentially wallbreak for Alolan Sandslash, and offer useful Healing Wish support while the latter appreciates Pokemon like Lanturn and Probopass being worn down and can potentially pivot around with U-turn depending on the set(Say this stuff alongside Oricorio's earlier mention). Similarly, checks to Fire-types are important due to Alolan Sandslash being 4x weak to their STAB attacks, so Pokemon such as Lanturn and Floatzel are good teammates. Note that Floatzel is more of an offensive check to Fire-types. Since Alolan Sandslash has issues with switching directly in on attacks, it appreciates pivots like Eelektross and the previously mentioned Lanturn getting it in for free against Pokemon that they bait in such as Audino. In return, Alolan Sandslash can prevent the two from being worn down too fast by getting rid of entry hazards. Alolan Sandslash can take advantage of opposing Ice-types like Aurorus and non-Focus Blast Jynx, so teammates that are vulnerable to Ice-type attacks such as Lilligant and Oricorio-G appreciate having Alolan Sandslash to fall back on. Alolan Sandslash can also take advantage of the hail that the former sets due to Slush Rush.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Adamant can be used over Jolly for additional firepower, but this leaves Alolan Sandslash outpaced by foes like Ludicolo outside of hail, and certain Choice Scarf users like Mr. Mime and Primeape outspeeding it under hail. Lum Berry is a viable alternative that allows non-Substitute Alolan Sandslash to ignore a status condition once and have an easier time setting up against bulkier foes such as Weezing. Choice Scarf can be used to lure in faster threats like Pyroar, but its low Speed and only average Attack limit the effectiveness of such a set. Furthermore, none of its attacks are really desirable to be locked into. Toxic can be used to wear bulky Pokemon like defensive Mesprit, Gastrodon, and Pyukumuku down for a teammate, but it has trouble finding space for this as well. Fightinium Z in combination with Focus Punch is usable and allows Alolan Sandslash to immediately break through foes such as Ferroseed and Munchlax, but Alolan Sandslash already has no problems setting up on these Pokemon because of Substitute.(Tho Munchlax can run Fire Punch)

Checks and Counters
===================

**Fighting-type Attacks**: Fighting-types such as Gurdurr, Hitmonchan, and Primeape can all out force Alolan Sandslash out due to its 4x weakness to their STAB moves, with the former two also threatening Alolan Sandslash with Mach Punch; furthermore, both only needed a little bit of prior damage to secure the OHKO. Other Pokemon with Fighting-type coverage such as Stoutland, Zangoose, and Jynx can all give Alolan Sandslash some trouble as well, and though Alolan Sandslash outspeeds all of them under hail, Stoutland and Gurdurr are capable of taking one hit before KOing it.(Tho Stoutland is koed by +2 Z-Icicle Crash and so is Gurdurr with a little extra damage previously taken)

**Fire-type Attacks**: Fire-types such as Combusken and Pyroar also give Alolan Sandslash issues since they all outspeed Alolan Sandslash outside of hail and can OHKO it with Fire Blast. Choice Scarf Pyroar also outspeeds Alolan Sandslash under hail while Combusken can stall out hail turns with Protect and get progressively faster with Speed Boost. However, none of them appreciate switching in on Earthquake and all of them are outsped under hail. Fire-type coverage from foes such as Mesprit and Weezing can also prove rather annoying.

**Opposing Weather**: Opposing weather setters such as Liepard and Volbeat are annoying for Alolan Sandslash if it is being used on a hail team, since they can set either sun or rain in place of the hail and pivot into a Chlorophyll or Swift Swim user (Or just a generally faster mon, cuz Slush Rush isnt active)and revenge kill it. Both can also cripple it with Encore and Thunder Wave even under hail due to Prankster.

**Faster Pokemon**: Alolan Sandslash's average Speed tier leaves it outsped by common offensive Pokemon such as Haunter, Oricorio-G, and Swanna outside of hail. Choice Scarf Pyroar outspeeds it even under hail and OHKOs it.(You already mentioned this under Fire types, tho there is Manectric)

And Skitty strikes again! 3/3

 

[Lumari]

remove add / fix (comments); (AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 1/2

check

[OVERVIEW]

Due to Slush Rush, Alolan Sandslash is able to outpace the entire unboosted metagame under hail, which in combination with its access to both Swords Dance and fairly high-powered STAB moves in Icicle Crash and Iron Head gives it the ability to be a potent hail sweeper. Alolan Sandslash's solid offensive typing gives it the ability to hit almost all of the tier for neutral with its STAB moves alone, and its relatively high Defense allows it to stomach neutral hits from Pokemon such as physical Skuntank and Togedemaru as well as most forms of priority sans except Mach Punch and retaliate with a much stronger attack, which can make revenge killing it difficult. Alolan Sandslash also has access to solid support options in Stealth Rock and Rapid Spin, with its typing and decent Speed tier giving it a positive matchup against common entry hazard setters, removers, and spinblockers such as Golurk, Swanna, and Oricorio-G helps to help it perform these roles rather well. While not the best defensively, its typing does allow Alolan Sandslash to switch into Ice-, Fairy-, Normal-, and Psychic-type attacks from Pokemon such as non-Choice Scarf Jynx, Clefairy, Type: Null, and defensive Mesprit. However, its typing burdens it with two crippling 4x weaknesses to Fighting and Fire, meaning that it is very vulnerable to common Pokemon like Pyroar and Gurdurr. Alolan Sandslash's damage output can also prove to be rather disappointing if it hasn't used Swords Dance, with which it can struggle doing because of its typing and poor special bulk. Finally, Alolan Sandslash's meager Speed tier leaves it outsped and easily revenge killed by common offensive Pokemon like Kingler outside of hail.

[SET]
name: Hail Sweeper
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Icicle Crash
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Substitute / Iron Head
item: Icium Z / Shuca Berry
ability: Slush Rush
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Swords Dance doubles Alolan Sandslash's Attack, allowing it to more easily sweep through teams. Icicle Crash is Alolan Sandslash's strongest and most reliable Ice-type STAB move, threatening to hit foes such as Torterra for super effective damage. Earthquake gives Alolan Sandslash coverage for foes that resist its dual STAB combination like Lanturn and Pyroar. Earthquake and also hits Pokemon like Aggron and Probopass harder than any of its other attacks. Substitute makes Alolan Sandslash harder to revenge kill outside of hail, guards it from status conditions, and allows it to take advantage of passive Pokemon like Weezing by setting up on them. Iron Head is an alternative secondary STAB move, allowing it Alolan Sandslash to hit certain Ice-resistant foes such as Munchlax harder than any of its other moves while also being a more reliable attack to hit Fairy-types like Silvally-Fairy.

Set Details
========

The investment in Attack and Speed, combined with Slush Rush to double its Speed under hail, (or just give this a separate sentence) maximizes Alolan Sandslash's offensive presence while also making it as fast it possibly can be, with a Jolly nature being used to outspeed Choice Scarf users such as Jynx and Primeape under hail due to Slush Rush doubling its Speed under hail. Icium Z turns Icicle Crash into Subzero Slammer, which can be used to break through very physically bulky Pokemon like Gastrodon at +2. Shuca Berry is an alternative that reduces the damage dealt by Ground-type attacks from Pokemon such as Kangaskhan, which prevents it from being overwhelmed by them outside of hail. Life Orb can also be used to increase Alolan Sandslash's damage output if its team already has a Z-Move user, but this does come with the drawback of recoil damage. Iron Head should be used over Substitute if opting for Life Orb, since this limits the amount of HP that Alolan Sandslash will lose.

Usage Tips
========

Alolan Sandslash should aim to use Substitute on Pokemon that it will force out under hail such as Lilligant and Oricorio-G, as this shields it from status conditions, allows it to scout, and makes setting up with Swords Dance easier. It can also use Swords Dance against these Pokemon if it is necessary to break through a bulkier foe. Swords Dance should mainly be used when up against bulkier teams, since it allows Alolan Sandslash to break through typical checks. Against more offensive teams, it may not always be necessary to do so, though it does make sweeping easier if it Alolan Sandslash gets the chance to do so. It is advised to wait until very physically bulky Pokemon like Weezing have been weakened or removed to begin attempting a sweep if Alolan Sandslash isn't running Substitute, as this lessens the need for it to use its Z-Move if it is running it and allows it to preserve it if Subzero Slammer is needed to break through another foe. However, Alolan Sandslash is also capable of serving as a wallbreaker that can pave the way for a teammate to sweep. Waiting for Mach Punch users such as Gurdurr to be removed is also important, since they can quickly put an end to Alolan Sandslash's late-game sweep. Avoid switching Alolan Sandslash directly in on attacks, especially special attacks, as this will shorten reduce its longevity and make sweeping more difficult. However, it can be switched in on weaker attacks from Pokemon such as Togedemaru. Despite excelling under hail, Alolan Sandslash is still capable of setting up and breaking with Icium Z outside of it. Life Orb variants of Alolan Sandslash should avoid simply using attacks against teams, since they can just pivot around and let the recoil work against it until it can be picked off by a priority move. Use the fact that it can be rather difficult to discern what item Alolan Sandslash is holding to your advantage by setting up on Pokemon like Kangaskhan, (AC) as they which are forced out.

Team Options
========

Hail setters such as Abomasnow and Aurorus are indispensable teammates, as Slush Rush is one of the main things that make Alolan Sandslash as threatening as it is. Both can wallbreak for Alolan Sandslash, (AC) with the latter also being able to potentially provide Stealth Rock support and generate free setup turns with Encore, while Alolan Sandslash can break through specially defensive Pokemon like Clefairy. Since Fighting-types threaten Alolan Sandslash with strong, 4x super effective attacks, checks to them are a necessity; Pokemon such as Mesprit, Spiritomb with Psychic, and Swanna perform this role well, with Mesprit also offering a slow U-turn and Healing Wish support, Spiritomb luring in and taking out (or w/e) Gurdurr, and Swanna offensively checking Fire-types as well. Checks to Fire-types are also important for the same reason, so Pokemon such as Clefairy and Lanturn are good teammates. Clefairy is also capable of setting Stealth Rock, while Lanturn can bring Alolan Sandslash safely into play with Volt Switch, and both can further wear down some of Alolan Sandslash's switch-ins with Toxic. Fighting-types like Gurdurr appreciate Alolan Sandslash taking care of both their defensive and offensive checks like Weezing and Oricorio-G (RC) and can have an easier time sweeping late-game because of this. Gurdurr also provides useful Knock Off support to cripple defensive switch-ins like Weezing. Special wallbreakers such as the two previously mentioned hail setters, Haunter, and Pyroar are appreciated due to their ability to either heavily pressure or outright KO most physical walls that Alolan Sandslash has problems bypassing. In return, Alolan Sandslash can handle specially bulky Pokemon like Audino and Carbink.

[SET]
name: Offensive Support
move 1: Rapid Spin / Stealth Rock
move 2: Icicle Crash
move 3: Knock Off / Iron Head
move 4: Earthquake
item: Shuca Berry
ability: Slush Rush
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Rapid Spin clears entry hazards from Alolan Sandslash's side of the field, which can prove useful for maintaining the longevity of its teammates while not without compromising any potential entry hazards that its team may set. Alternatively, Stealth Rock can be used to pressure opposing teams by wearing foes down every time they switch in. Icicle Crash is a strong Ice-type STAB move that deals heavy damage to common spinblockers such as Golurk and Oricorio-G, on top of hitting certain Defog users like Shiftry and Togetic for super effective damage. Knock Off cripples bulkier Pokemon that are quick to switch in on Alolan Sandslash such as Ferroseed and Gurdurr by removing their item, which may prove useful for supporting a teammate. Iron Head threatens to hit certain Fairy- and Rock-types such as Clefairy and Regirock harder than Icicle Crash. Earthquake gives Alolan Sandslash the ability to threaten foes like Togedemaru, Aggron, and Kabutops, all of which would otherwise switch in with few issues aside from taking a Knock Off.

Set Details
========

Maximum investment in Speed and Attack make makes Alolan Sandslash as powerful and as fast as possible, with a Jolly nature being used to outspeed Pokemon like Adamant Absol outside of hail. Slush Rush doubles Alolan Sandslash's Speed under hail, which allows it to then outpace the entire unboosted metagame and pose a threat to opposing hail teams. Shuca Berry is the preferred item, since it gives Alolan Sandslash an easier time setting up or removing entry hazards against foes with Ground-type attacks such as Aurorus, Kangaskhan, and opposing Alolan Sandslash as well as against Stealth Rock setters such as Regirock and Golurk. Leftovers can be used instead to prevent Alolan Sandslash from being worn down by entry hazards by granting it a form of passive recovery.

Usage Tips
========

Alolan Sandslash should capitalize on its decently broad coverage, immunity to Toxic Spikes, and advantageous matchup against common Stealth Rock setters, entry hazard removers, and spinblockers by either setting or removing entry hazards on the turn that the aforementioned Pokemon switch out. Because it is holding a Shuca Berry, Alolan Sandslash is also capable of setting Stealth Rock against foes that are reliant on Ground-types attacks to KO it such as Kangaskhan. Knock Off should also be used a lot early-game, since it cripples defensive Pokemon as well as bulkier Pokemon that can otherwise switch in with no qualms like Gurdurr. Switching in on stronger, neutral attacks is ill advised, (RH, see here for the reason why) especially if Alolan Sandslash is a team's only means of entry hazard removal, as this will wear it down faster and leave it incapable of supporting its team as effectively. However, Alolan Sandslash can switch in on Pokemon like physical Skuntank fairly well and use the following turn to its advantage by either setting Stealth Rock or clearing its side of the field. If the opposing team has a hail setter, preserving Alolan Sandslash may prove to be a good idea, since it is still capable of cleaning late-game due to its decent Attack stat and Slush Rush. Be sure to scout for Fire-type coverage from Pokemon that Alolan Sandslash can otherwise switch into, such as Silvally-Fairy, as they will either heavily damage or OHKO it.

Team Options
========

Wallbreakers that appreciate the removal of entry hazards (RC) or the potential setting of Stealth Rock (RC) like Oricorio-G and Pyroar are good partners, since they can break through physically bulky Pokemon that Alolan Sandslash has issues with such as Kingler. Oricorio-G can also offensively check Fighting-types for Alolan Sandslash, appreciates Pokemon like Lanturn and Probopass being worn down, and can potentially pivot around with U-turn depending on the set. Checks to Fighting-types are very important due to them threatening Alolan Sandslash with 4x super effective STAB moves, so teammates such as Mesprit and Weezing are appreciated. The former in particular is a good teammate, since it can bluff a Stealth Rock set, potentially wallbreak for Alolan Sandslash, and offer useful Healing Wish support, (AC) while the latter can wear down Alolan Sandslash's switch-ins with Toxic Spikes. Similarly, checks to Fire-types such as Lanturn and Floatzel are important due to Alolan Sandslash's being 4x weakness to their STAB attacks, so Pokemon such as Lanturn and Floatzel are good teammates. Note that Floatzel is more of an offensive check to Fire-types. Since Alolan Sandslash has issues with switching directly in on attacks, it appreciates pivots like Eelektross and the previously mentioned Lanturn getting it in for free against Pokemon that they bait in such as Audino. In return, Alolan Sandslash can prevent the two from being worn down too fast by getting rid of entry hazards. Alolan Sandslash can take advantage of opposing Ice-types like Aurorus and non-Focus Blast Jynx, so teammates that are vulnerable to Ice-type attacks such as Lilligant and Oricorio-G appreciate having Alolan Sandslash to fall back on. Alolan Sandslash can also take advantage of the hail that the former sets due to Slush Rush.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

An Adamant nature can be used over Jolly for additional firepower, but this leaves Alolan Sandslash outpaced by foes like Ludicolo outside of hail (RC) and by certain Choice Scarf users like Mr. Mime and Primeape outspeeding it under hail. Lum Berry is a viable alternative that allows non-Substitute Alolan Sandslash to ignore a status condition once and have an easier time setting up against bulkier foes such as Weezing. Choice Scarf can be used to lure in and take out faster threats like Pyroar, but its low Speed and only average Attack limit the effectiveness of such a set. Furthermore, none of its attacks are really desirable to be locked into. Toxic can be used to wear bulky Pokemon like defensive Mesprit, Gastrodon, and Pyukumuku down for a teammate, but it Alolan Sandslash has trouble finding space for this as well. Fightinium Z in combination with Focus Punch is usable and allows Alolan Sandslash to immediately break through foes such as Ferroseed and non-Fire Punch Munchlax, but Alolan Sandslash already has no problems setting up on these Pokemon because of Substitute.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Fighting-type Attacks**: Fighting-types such as Gurdurr, Hitmonchan, and Primeape can all out force Alolan Sandslash out due to its 4x weakness to their STAB moves, with the former two also threatening Alolan Sandslash with Mach Punch; furthermore, both only needed need a little bit of prior damage to secure the OHKO. Other Pokemon with Fighting-type coverage such as Stoutland, Zangoose, and Jynx can all give Alolan Sandslash some trouble as well, and though Alolan Sandslash outspeeds all of them under hail, Stoutland and Gurdurr are capable of taking one hit before KOing it. However, +2 Subzero Slammer OHKOs OHKOes Stoutland and KOs KOes Gurdurr after a bit of prior damage.

**Fire-type Attacks**: Fire-types such as Combusken and Pyroar also give Alolan Sandslash issues, (AC) since they all outspeed Alolan Sandslash outside of hail and can OHKO it with Fire Blast. Choice Scarf Pyroar also outspeeds Alolan Sandslash under hail while Combusken can stall out hail turns with Protect and get progressively faster with Speed Boost. However, none of them appreciate switching in on Earthquake, (AC) and all of them are outsped under hail. Fire-type coverage from foes such as Mesprit and Weezing can also prove rather annoying.

**Opposing Weather**: Opposing weather setters such as Liepard and Volbeat are annoying for Alolan Sandslash if it is being used on a hail team, since they can set either sun or rain in place of the hail and pivot into a faster Pokemon and revenge kill it. Both can also cripple it with Encore and Thunder Wave even under hail due to Prankster.

**Faster Pokemon**: Alolan Sandslash's average Speed tier leaves it outsped by common offensive Pokemon such as Haunter, Oricorio-G, and Swanna outside of hail. Choice Scarf Manectric outspeeds it even under hail and OHKOs OHKOes it.

 

[lotiasite]

GP 2/2

check

[OVERVIEW]

Due to Slush Rush, Alolan Sandslash is able to outpace the entire unboosted metagame under hail, which in combination with its access to both Swords Dance and fairly high-powered STAB moves in Icicle Crash and Iron Head gives it the ability to be a potent hail sweeper. Alolan Sandslash's solid offensive typing gives it the abilityenables it (repetition) to hit almost all of the tier for neutral damage with its STAB moves alone, and its relatively high Defense allows it to stomach neutral hits from Pokemon such as physical Skuntank and Togedemaru as well as most forms of priority except Mach Punch and retaliate with a much stronger attack, which can make revenge killing it difficult. Alolan Sandslash also has access to solid support options in Stealth Rock and Rapid Spin, with its typing and decent Speed tier giving it a positive matchup against common entry hazard setters, hazard removers, and spinblockers such as Golurk, Swanna, and Oricorio-G to help it perform these roles rather well. While not the best defensively, its typing does allow Alolan Sandslash to switch into Ice-, Fairy-, Normal-, and Psychic-type attacks from Pokemon such as non-Choice Scarf Jynx, Clefairy, Type: Null, and defensive Mesprit. However, its typing burdens it with two crippling 4x weaknesses to Fighting and Fire, meaning that it is very vulnerable to common Pokemon like Pyroar and Gurdurr. Alolan Sandslash's damage output can also prove to be rather disappointing if it hasn't used Swords Dance, which it can struggle doing because of its typing and poor special bulk. Finally, Alolan Sandslash's meager Speed tier leaves it outsped and easily revenge killed by common offensive Pokemon like Kingler outside of hail.

[SET]
name: Hail Sweeper
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Icicle Crash
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Substitute / Iron Head
item: Icium Z / Shuca Berry
ability: Slush Rush
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Swords Dance doubles Alolan Sandslash's Attack, allowing it to more easily sweep through teams. Icicle Crash is Alolan Sandslash's strongest and most reliable Ice-type STAB move, threatening to hit foes such as Torterra for super effective damage. Earthquake gives Alolan Sandslash coverage for foes that resist its dual STAB combination like Lanturn and Pyroar and also hits Pokemon like Aggron and Probopass harder than any of its other attacks. Substitute makes Alolan Sandslash harder to revenge kill outside of hail, guards it from status conditions, and allows it to take advantage of passive Pokemon like Weezing by setting up on them. Iron Head is an alternative secondary STAB move, allowing Alolan Sandslash to hit certain Ice-resistant foes such as Munchlax harder than any of its other moves while also being a more reliable attack to hit Fairy-types like Silvally-Fairy.

Set Details
========

The investment in Attack and Speed, combined with Slush Rush to double its Speed under hail, maximizes Alolan Sandslash's offensive presence while also making it as fast it possibly can be, with a Jolly nature being used to outspeed Choice Scarf users such as Jynx and Primeape under hail. Icium Z turns Icicle Crash into Subzero Slammer, which can be used to break through very physically bulky Pokemon like Gastrodon at +2. Shuca Berry is an alternative that reduces the damage dealt by Ground-type attacks from Pokemon such as Kangaskhan, which prevents it from being overwhelmed by them outside of hail. Life Orb can also be used to increase Alolan Sandslash's damage output if its team already has a Z-Move user, but this does come with the drawback of recoil damage. Iron Head should be used over Substitute if opting for Life Orb, since this limits the amount of HP that Alolan Sandslash will lose.

Usage Tips
========

Alolan Sandslash should aim to use Substitute on Pokemon that it will force out under hail such as Lilligant and Oricorio-G, as this shields it from status conditions, allows it to scout, and makes setting up with Swords Dance easier. It can also use Swords Dance against these Pokemon if it is necessary to break through a bulkier foe. Swords Dance should mainly be used when up against bulkier teams, since it allows Alolan Sandslash to break through typical checks. Against more offensive teams, it may not always be necessary to do so, though it does make sweeping easier if Alolan Sandslash gets the chance to do so. It is advised to wait until very physically bulky Pokemon like Weezing have been weakened or removed to begin attempting a sweep if Alolan Sandslash isn't running Substitute, as this lessens the need for it to use its Z-Move if it is running it and allows it to preserve it if Subzero Slammer is needed to break through another foe. However, Alolan Sandslash is also capable of serving as a wallbreaker that can pave the way for a teammate to sweep. Waiting for Mach Punch users such as Gurdurr to be removed is also important, since they can quickly put an end to Alolan Sandslash's late-game sweep. Avoid switching Alolan Sandslash directly in on attacks, especially special attacks, as this will reduce its longevity and make sweeping more difficult. However, it can be switched in on weaker attacks from Pokemon such as Togedemaru. Despite excelling under hail, Alolan Sandslash is still capable of setting up and breaking with Icium Z outside of it. Life Orb variants of Alolan Sandslash should avoid simply using attacks against teams, since they can just pivot around and let the recoil work against it until it can be picked off by a priority move. Use the fact that it can be rather difficult to discern what item Alolan Sandslash is holding to your advantage by setting up on Pokemon like Kangaskhan, as they are forced out.

Team Options
========

Hail setters such as Abomasnow and Aurorus are indispensable teammates, as Slush Rush is one of the main things that make Alolan Sandslash as threatening as it is. Both can wallbreak for Alolan Sandslash, with the latter also being able to potentially provide Stealth Rock support and generate free setup turns with Encore, while Alolan Sandslash can break through specially defensive Pokemon like Clefairy. Since Fighting-types threaten Alolan Sandslash with strong, 4x super effective attacks, checks to them are a necessity; Pokemon such as Mesprit, Spiritomb with Psychic, and Swanna perform this role well, with Mesprit also offering a slow U-turn and Healing Wish support, Spiritomb luring in and taking out Gurdurr, and Swanna offensively checking Fire-types as well. Checks to Fire-types are also important for the same reason, so Pokemon such as Clefairy and Lanturn are good teammates. Clefairy is also capable of setting Stealth Rock, while Lanturn can bring Alolan Sandslash safely into play with Volt Switch, and both can further wear down some of Alolan Sandslash's switch-ins with Toxic. Fighting-types like Gurdurr appreciate Alolan Sandslash taking care of both their defensive and offensive checks like Weezing and Oricorio-G and can have an easier time sweeping late-game because of this. Gurdurr also provides useful Knock Off support to cripple defensive switch-ins like Weezing. Special wallbreakers such as the two previously mentioned hail setters, Haunter, and Pyroar are appreciated due to their ability to either heavily pressure or outright KO most physical walls that Alolan Sandslash has problems bypassing. In return, Alolan Sandslash can handle specially bulky Pokemon like Audino and Carbink.

[SET]
name: Offensive Support
move 1: Rapid Spin / Stealth Rock
move 2: Icicle Crash
move 3: Knock Off / Iron Head
move 4: Earthquake
item: Shuca Berry
ability: Slush Rush
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Rapid Spin clears entry hazards from Alolan Sandslash's side of the field, which can prove useful for maintaining the longevity of its teammates without compromising any potential entry hazards that its team may set. Alternatively, Stealth Rock can be used to pressure opposing teams by wearing foes down every time they switch in. Icicle Crash is a strong Ice-type STAB move that deals heavy damage to common spinblockers such as Golurk and Oricorio-G, on top of hitting certain Defog users like Shiftry and Togetic for super effective damage. Knock Off cripples bulkier Pokemon that are quick to switch in on Alolan Sandslash such as Ferroseed and Gurdurr by removing their item, which may prove useful for supporting a teammate. Iron Head threatens to hit certain Fairy- and Rock-types such as Clefairy and Regirock harder than Icicle Crash. Earthquake gives Alolan Sandslash the ability to threaten foes like Togedemaru, Aggron, and Kabutops, all of which would otherwise switch in with few issues aside from taking a Knock Off.

Set Details
========

Maximum investment in Speed and Attack makes Alolan Sandslash as powerful and as fast as possible, with a Jolly nature being used to outspeed Pokemon like Adamant Absol outside of hail. Slush Rush doubles Alolan Sandslash's Speed under hail, which allows it to then outpace the entire unboosted metagame and pose a threat to opposing hail teams. Shuca Berry is the preferred item, since it gives Alolan Sandslash an easier time setting up or removing entry hazards against foes with Ground-type attacks such as Aurorus, Kangaskhan, and opposing Alolan Sandslash as well as against Stealth Rock setters such as Regirock and Golurk. Leftovers can be used instead to prevent Alolan Sandslash from being worn down by entry hazards by granting it a form of passive recovery.

Usage Tips
========

Alolan Sandslash should capitalize on its decently broad coverage, immunity to Toxic Spikes, and advantageous matchup against common Stealth Rock setters, entry hazard removers, and spinblockers by either setting or removing entry hazards on the turn that the aforementioned Pokemon switch out. Because it is holding a Shuca Berry, Alolan Sandslash is also capable of setting Stealth Rock against foes that are reliant on Ground-types attacks to KO it such as Kangaskhan. Knock Off should also be used a lot early-game, since it cripples defensive Pokemon as well as bulkier Pokemon that can otherwise switch in with no qualms like Gurdurr. Switching in on stronger, neutral attacks is ill advised, especially if Alolan Sandslash is a team's only means of entry hazard removal, as this will wear it down faster and leave it incapable of supporting its team as effectively. However, Alolan Sandslash can switch in on Pokemon like physical Skuntank fairly well and use the following turn to its advantage by either setting Stealth Rock or clearing its side of the field. If the opposing team has a hail setter, preserving Alolan Sandslash may prove to be a good idea, since it is still capable of cleaning late-game due to its decent Attack stat and Slush Rush. Be sure to scout for Fire-type coverage from Pokemon that Alolan Sandslash can otherwise switch into, such as Silvally-Fairy, as they will either heavily damage or OHKO it.

Team Options
========

Wallbreakers that appreciate the removal of entry hazards or the potential setting of Stealth Rock like Oricorio-G and Pyroar are good partners, since they can break through physically bulky Pokemon that Alolan Sandslash has issues with such as Kingler. Oricorio-G can also offensively check Fighting-types for Alolan Sandslash, appreciates Pokemon like Lanturn and Probopass being worn down, and can pivot around with U-turn depending on the set. Checks to Fighting-types are very important due to them threatening Alolan Sandslash with 4x super effective STAB moves, so teammates such as Mesprit and Weezing are appreciated. The former in particular is a good teammate, since it can bluff a Stealth Rock set, potentially wallbreak for Alolan Sandslash, and offer useful Healing Wish support, while the latter can wear down Alolan Sandslash's switch-ins with Toxic Spikes. Similarly, checks to Fire-types such as Lanturn and Floatzel are important due to Alolan Sandslash's 4x weakness to their STAB attacks. Note that Floatzel is more of an offensive check to Fire-types. Since Alolan Sandslash has issues with switching directly in on attacks, it appreciates pivots like Eelektross and the previously mentioned Lanturn getting it in for free against Pokemon that they bait in such as Audino. In return, Alolan Sandslash can prevent the two from being worn down too fast by getting rid of entry hazards. Alolan Sandslash can take advantage of opposing Ice-types like Aurorus and non-Focus Blast Jynx, so teammates that are vulnerable to Ice-type attacks such as Lilligant and Oricorio-G appreciate having Alolan Sandslash to fall back on. Alolan Sandslash can also take advantage of the hail that the former sets due to Slush Rush.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

An Adamant nature can be used over Jolly for additional firepower, but this leaves Alolan Sandslash outpaced by foes like Ludicolo outside of hail and by(add space)certain Choice Scarf users like Mr. Mime and Primeape under hail. Lum Berry is a viable alternative that allows non-Substitute Alolan Sandslash to ignore a status condition once and have an easier time setting up against bulkier foes such as Weezing. Choice Scarf can be used to lure in and take out faster threats like Pyroar, but itAlolan Sandslash's low Speed and only average Attack limit the effectiveness of such a set. Furthermore, none of its attacks are really desirable to be locked into. Toxic can be used to wear bulky Pokemon like defensive Mesprit, Gastrodon, and Pyukumuku down for a teammate, but Alolan Sandslash has trouble finding space for this as well. Fightinium Z in combination with Focus Punch is usable and allows Alolan Sandslash to immediately break through foes such as Ferroseed and non-Fire Punch Munchlax, but Alolan Sandslash already has no problems setting up on these Pokemon because of Substitute.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Fighting-type Attacks**: Fighting-types such as Gurdurr, Hitmonchan, and Primeape can all out force Alolan Sandslash out due to its 4x weakness to their STAB moves, with the former two also threatening Alolan Sandslash with Mach Punch; furthermore, both only need a little bit of prior damage to secure the OHKO. Other Pokemon with Fighting-type coverage such as Stoutland, Zangoose, and Jynx can all give Alolan Sandslash some trouble as well, and though Alolan Sandslash outspeeds all of them under hail, Stoutland and Gurdurr are capable of taking one hit before KOing it. However, +2 Subzero Slammer OHKOes Stoutland and KOes Gurdurr after a bit of prior damage.

**Fire-type Attacks**: Fire-types such as Combusken and Pyroar also give Alolan Sandslash issues, since they all outspeed Alolan Sandslash outside of hail and can OHKO it with Fire Blast. Choice Scarf Pyroar also outspeeds Alolan Sandslash under hail while, (AC) and Combusken can stall out hail turns with Protect and get progressively faster with Speed Boost. However, none of them appreciate switching in on Earthquake, and all of them besides Choice Scarf Pyroar are outsped under hail. Fire-type coverage from foes such as Mesprit and Weezing can also prove rather annoying.

**Opposing Weather**: Opposing weather setters such as Liepard and Volbeat are annoying for Alolan Sandslash if it is being used on a hail team, since they can set either sun or rain in place of the hail and pivot into a faster Pokemon and revenge kill it. Both can also cripple it with Encore and Thunder Wave even under hail due to Prankster.

**Faster Pokemon**: Alolan Sandslash's average Speed tier leaves it outsped by common offensive Pokemon such as Haunter, Oricorio-G, and Swanna outside of hail. Choice Scarf Manectric outspeeds it even under hail and OHKOes it.

 

[asa]

done