Pajantom

snake

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CAP Co-Leader
OVERVIEW]

Pajantom's niche lies in its access to Spirit Shackle, which allows it to trap opposing Pokemon and prevent double switches. Its Speed tier ensures that it can outspeed Mega Medicham and Choice Specs Volkraken if invested, as well as most defensive Pokemon if it opts to run its slower, bulkier set. Pajantom can trap such defensive Pokemon, including Toxapex, Tomohawk, and Clefable, and remove them with a Z-Move without fear of the target switching out. With its wide movepool, this set can essentially pick its checks and counters. Alternatively, a specially defensive variant is a good blanket trapper for most defensive Pokemon and check to powerful Fire-types like Volkraken and Heatran. Pajantom has a lot of defensive utility, as its many resistances and good bulk allow it to tank weak moves from Pokemon like Tomohawk, Toxapex, Zapdos, and Gastrodon. Additionally, Comatose confers a status immunity to Pajantom, which helps against Lava Plume Heatran and Toxapex. Pajantom's greatest weakness is to Pursuit trapping, making it hard to get multiple KOs when the opposing team has a Weavile, Colossoil, or Mega Tyranitar. Also, Pajantom has no recovery outside of Leftovers, so it can be worn down very fast without team support.

[SET]
name: Z-Crystal Trapper
move 1: Spirit Shackle
move 2: Earthquake / Ice Punch
move 3: Ice Punch / Outrage
move 4: Heal Block
item: Ghostium Z / Dragonium Z
ability: Comatose
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

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

Trapping foes with Spirit Shackle allows Pajantom to fire off its Z-Move safely. Earthquake is a reliable attack that 2HKOes Magearna and Krilowatt and OHKOes Mega Crucibelle and Heatran. Ice Punch 2HKOes Landorus-T and bulky Jumbao after some chip damage as well as almost OHKOing Zygarde and 2HKOing Colossoil. If Pajantom runs Dragonium Z, Outrage should replace Earthquake or Ice Punch. Iron Tail over Earthquake or Ice Punch with Steelium Z is a more specific option to remove Clefable and Jumbao, as they are nearly OHKOed by Corkscrew Crash. Heal Block denies the opposing Pokemon's recovery, making it significantly easier to wear down and KO.

Set Details
========

A Jolly nature is preferred to outspeed Tapu Lele, 3 attacks Zapdos, and Mega Medicham. Ghostium Z is Pajantom's best option for wearing down Steel-types, as Never-Ending Nightmare deals over half of Celesteela and Ferrothorn's HP. Also, Pajantom can use this Z-Move to overcome bulky Fairy-types like Clefable and Jumbao in combination with Heal Block pressure. Dragonium Z instead removes most defensive Pokemon like Toxapex, Zapdos, and Tomohawk as well as OHKOing Colossoil on the switch. If running Iron Tail, Steelium Z should be run.

Usage Tips
========

Early-game, it's best to spam Spirit Shackle, wearing down the opposing team and giving Pajantom's teammates safer switches by preventing double switches. In doing so, you can read what the opponent's answers to Pajantom are. Even though this set aims to trap more defensive switch-ins, offensive switch-ins generally have a harder time tanking hits from Pajantom. This means defensive answers are more likely to switch in, despite the looming threat of the trap, allowing Pajantom to wear them down or perform a double switch. Using Heal Block after the opponent is trapped makes it easier for Pajantom to wear Pokemon down into Z-Move KO range. Preventing Ferrothorn, Pyroak, and Celesteela from having their Leech Seed recovery is essential. Once the defensive check has been sufficiently worn down, use Pajantom's Z-Move to eliminate it for a sweeping teammate. Although it may be tempting to use the Z-Move immediately for damage, the set fails to do its job if the wall is able to heal the damage from the Z-Move. Take the necessary measures, such as using Heal Block or performing the trap later in the game when the wall is more weakened, to ensure Pajantom successfully removes the defensive Pokemon. Even if the team doesn't have a defined defensive backbone, Pajantom is able to disrupt offensive momentum with Spirit Shackle and use its coverage and Z-Move on switch-ins. Pay particular attention to Pursuit users. If the opponent has one, it's important not to let Pajantom give these Pokemon a free switch in. If Pajantom gets a KO, it leaves itself vulnerable to the Pursuit user. Slower Pursuit trappers like Colossoil, Malaconda, and Tyranitar can be removed with Devastating Drake, though Colossoil and Malaconda commonly run Sucker Punch. A healthy Weavile can switch into and survive Earthquake, Ice Punch, or Spirit Shackle, so switching out as it comes in is generally a better play. It is important to identify whether or not Pajantom is still needed after removing the defensive Pokemon; if it is, preserve it and remove the Pursuit trapper before making any KOs with it.

Team Options
=======

Choice Scarf Magnezone is one of the best teammates for Pajantom, as Pajantom lures and prevents Steel-types from switching out, which Magnezone can then trap and beat. Magnezone can also take out troublesome Fairy-types like Clefable and Jumbao for Pajantom. In return, Pajantom can trap bulky Pokemon that don't care about Magnezone, including Pyroak and Zapdos. Heatran is another option for a double trapping core, as its Magma Storm also limits the opposing team's options. As a bonus, Heatran takes care of Steel- and Fairy-types, allowing Pajantom to run Dragonium Z and Ice Punch more easily. In return, Pajantom can remove Pokemon like Arghonaut and Trace Jumbao for Heatran. Sweepers appreciate Pajantom's support; however, the sweeper cannot also rely on a Z-Crystal. Life Orb Aurumoth appreciates Ghostium Z Pajantom removing Celesteela, setup Zygarde likes Tangrowth and Jumbao out of the way, Swords Dance Mega Pinsir sweeps better with Cyclohm and Zapdos removed, and Double Dance Magearna functions better with Toxapex fainted. Offensive Spikes and Stealth Rock setters like Greninja, Syclant, Landorus-T, and Mega Crucibelle can help wear down defensive Pokemon into Z-Move KO range faster. In return, Pajantom can remove the defensive Pokemon that wall these offensive setters. Defog Tornadus-T, Landorus-T, and Tapu Koko can clear hazards, preventing Pajantom from being worn down over the match. Teammates that can deal with Pursuit trappers like Colossoil, Tyranitar, and Weavile prevent Pajantom from being trapped itself. Examples include Tomohawk, Jumbao, and Mega Scizor.

[SET]
name: Specially Defensive Trapper
move 1: Spirit Shackle
move 2: Toxic
move 3: Protect
move 4: Heal Block
item: Leftovers
ability: Comatose
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

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

Spirit Shackle traps and weakens defensive Pokemon. Notably, the chip damage against Toxapex is enough to remove it efficiently. Even without Attack investment, Spirit Shackle still OHKOes Tapu Lele and Mega Medicham, allowing Pajantom to OHKO them on the switch. Protect allows Pajantom to scout for Knock Off users, gain an extra turn of Leftovers recovery, and rack up Toxic damage. Heal Block denies a trapped Pokemon from recovering, forcing Pokemon like Tomohawk to submit to Toxic and Spirit Shackle damage.

Set Details
========

Comatose prevents Pajantom from being worn down by Toxapex's Toxic, Heatran's Lava Plume, and Chansey's Toxic, saving valuable HP. Leftovers is Pajantom’s only source of recovery, which allows it to heal as Toxic damage racks up on the opposing Pokemon.

Usage Tips
========

Bulky Pajantom focuses on whittling down usual switch-ins with Toxic and denying their recovery, rather than overloading a Pokemon with damage. Spirit Shackle should be used against Pokemon that can't do much damage to Pajantom switching in. It might be better to use Toxic on a predicted switch-in like Greninja, which doesn’t care about Spirit Shackle damage. Using Protect against potential Knock Off users like Toxapex, Arghonaut, Tornadus-T, and Mew ensures Pajantom won't lose its Leftovers. If Knock Off is revealed, Pajantom cannot stay in safely. Also, Protect can scout against Choice item users like Tapu Lele, Syclant, and Ash-Greninja, making them easier to play around. Use Toxic to wear down trapped switch-ins such as Tomohawk and Zapdos, following up with Heal Block to prevent recovery and Protect to stall for damage and heal with Leftovers. Against Pokemon immune to Toxic like Toxapex, use Heal Block and repeated Spirit Shackle to remove them. Pajantom can switch into defensive Tomohawk or Fidgit to spinblock or soak up a weak attack. However, offensive Tomohawk's Hurricane heavily compromises Pajantom’s ability to switch in later. Using Heal Block against a weakened Clefable or Jumbao might seem risky, but if it chooses a recovery move, it wastes the turn and leave itself vulnerable to Pajantom's teammates.

Team Options
========

Pajantom naturally lures in Steel-types like Celesteela, Mega Scizor, and Ferrothorn, so it appreciates partners that beat them. By having teammates that defeat Steel-types efficiently, Pajantom can more easily trap and wear down the opposing team with Toxic. Magnezone pairs well as a dual trapping core, ensuring that Ferrothorn and Celesteela are eliminated and that Mega Scizor must U-turn rather than Defog. Strong Fire-types like Volkraken, Mega Charizard X, and Heatran and Ground-types like Colossoil, Landorus-T, and Zygarde generally have a positive matchup against these Steel-types as well. Pajantom also lures in Fairy-types like Clefable and Jumbao, so good switch-ins that can capitalize on trapped Fairy-types are excellent partners. Mega Crucibelle is an excellent switch-in, tanking Moonblast with its naturally high Special Defense, forcing a switch with Gunk Shot, and gaining momentum with U-turn. Heatran functions the same way, using the free turn for trapping a following switch-in or setting Stealth Rock. Double Dance Magearna gets a free turn to use Shift Gear and begin its sweep. Celesteela forms a strong defensive core with Pajantom, as Pajantom can deal with strong Fire-types and Celesteela has a good matchup against Fairy- and Steel-types and can apply more residual damage with Leech Seed. Pajantom's largest weakness is easily Pursuit trapping, which forces it to perform double switches while a Pursuit trapper is healthy. Therefore, Pokemon with a positive matchup against Colossoil, Tyranitar, and Weavile are mandatory teammates. Mega Sczior, Tomohawk, Jumbao, Clefable, and Tapu Bulu deal with some or all of these Pokemon effectively and provide other utility that Pajantom appreciates. Wish users like Clefable and Jumbao give Pajantom recovery outside of Leftovers. Stealth Rock setters such as Heatran, Landorus-T, and Clefable and Spikes setters like Arghonaut and Greninja help Pajantom wear down the opposing team faster. Toxic Spikes setters like Toxapex allow Pajantom not to have to spend as many turns using Toxic. Although Pajantom appreciates entry hazard removal, it vastly prefers teammates with Rapid Spin so that opposing hazards can stay up. Tomohawk and Colossoil both work well in this regard. However, Defog users like Landorus-T and Tornadus-T also work. Since Pajantom excels at wearing down or removing essential members of balance cores, wallbreakers like Ash-Greninja and Mega Pinsir and sweepers like Shift Gear Magearna and Dragon Dance Zygarde make for good teammates.

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

Pajantom can set Toxic Spikes and trap Poison-types that switch in to absorb them, providing multiple layers of team support. Additionally, Pajantom isn't a Poison-type like most Toxic Spikes setters, which can be favorable for Poison-type teammates like Mega Crucibelle, which don't want to stack weaknesses.

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

**Pursuit Users**: Weavile, Mega Tyranitar, and Colossoil force Pajantom to play very carefully. Although they might not have the easiest time switching into offensive sets, the specially defensive set can't do much to them aside from chipping them with resisted Spirit Shackle or landing Toxic. Colossoil can use Sucker Punch to make the matchup even more dicey, while Weavile natural outspeeds and threatens Pajantom with Icicle Crash as well. Malaconda is a niche Pursuit user that can tackle specially defensive sets with relative ease and annoy offensive variants with Sucker Punch.

**Faster Pokemon**: Many Pokemon can come in on Pajantom and threaten it by simply by outspeeding. Greninja, Syclant, and Krilowatt threaten with Ice Beam, while Mega Crucibelle, Mega Latios, and Tapu Koko threaten with STAB Head Smash, Draco Meteor, or Dazzling Gleam. Choice Scarf users like Jumbao and Tapu Lele also threaten Pajantom with STAB Moonblast. However, they have a hard time switching in directly.

**Steel-types**: Mega Scizor is Pajantom's sturdiest counter, as it can tank any of Pajantom's moves with ease, heal the damage, and threaten Pajantom out with Bullet Punch or Knock Off. Ferrothorn and Celesteela can tank Spirit Shackle quite well and heal with Leech Seed, but Ghostium Z sets can power through them. Additionally, these Steel-types have to watch out for Heal Block.

**Bulky Fairy-types**: Clefable and Jumbao can tank Pajantom's Spirit Shackle with ease, wear it down with Moonblast, and heal with Soft-Boiled or Shore Up. Additionally, Clefable ignores Toxic damage. However, they must play carefully around Heal Block, Never-Ending Nightmare, and Corkscrew Crash.

**Knock Off**: Arghonaut, Toxapex, Kartana, and Tornadus-T can use super effective Knock Off against specially defensive Pajantom, which heavily damages it and removes Leftovers, its only form of recovery. While Pajantom can scout for Knock Off using Protect, it's still forced to switch out.

- Written by: [[snake_rattler, 227784]]
- Quality checked by: [[LucarioOfLegends, 339349], [Jordy, 395754]]
- Grammar checked by: [[CryoGyro, 331519], [The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216]]
 
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As always, great analysis, congratulations.

I think that Brave Bird deserves a slash in both Z-Crystal and Choice Band sets, as mentionned above Pajantom's ability to break through things like Argho, Hawk and Pyro is really appealing. You also hit Jumbao harder, so I think it could be slashed in the third slot before Ice Punch and Toxic, as the only targets you'll really miss are Defnsive Lando-T which isn't as dominant in CAP as it is in OU and Colossoil which still needs to avoid Outrage (although being locked on this moves means that Pajantom is dead against any Colo carrying Sucker Punch). Brave Bird is much more reliable than Fly since it doesn't become nearly useless after using it as a Z-Move or if you hit a Tomohawk holding a Coba Berry, something you can trigger by using Brave Bird once without the Z-Crystal. The damage difference between SS and Z-Outrage is pretty significant in my opinion since you don't need as mcuh prior damage to ensure the KO, thus it's less likely that Tomohawk uses Roost when you use Z-Brave Bird afterwards (sorry if I suck at explaining):

252 Atk Pajantom Devastating Drake (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Tomohawk: 244-288 (58.9 - 69.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252 Atk Pajantom Supersonic Skystrike (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Tomohawk: 326-384 (78.7 - 92.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery (A Spirit Shackle beforehand and the KO is guaranteed)

I think Brave Bird should replace Toxic in the CB set because you typically want to deal as much damages as quickly as possible when using a banded Mon and the only targets you'll really miss are maybe Unaware Clefable and Defensive-Lando (Zapdos can't do anything in return and takes a dozen from Outrage), Pajantom's main problems are Steel-Types anyway. It's especially useful against Tomohawk which would stall Outrage with Roost and maybe Rocky Helmet until you get hit by self-induced confusion, whereas Brave Bird will overpower it quicker, although you takes a lot of recoil damages in the process. Keeping a strong Se move against Jumbao, Argho and Pyro is still very nice to have, even if Toxic already hinders them all.

Heatran makes a very good Pajantom's partner as they form an efficient double trapper combo in my opinion, they switch on each other checks very well and prevent the opponent from tring to catch momentum by double switching. Tran is also a very good Toxic spreader and can mess around with Taunt.

Choice Scarf is a cool set that probably deserves at least a mention in OO, Jumbao enjoys it 101 base Speed and its coverage to RK all of Moth, Volc, Navi and Zygarde at +1. AV is also alright and allows you to swicth on Heatran, Zard-Y, Plasmanta, Volkraken and the likes with even more ease.

Although it's outclassed in most areas, Tapu Fini should probably be mentionned in the C&C section alongside Clefable due to its bulk, typing and Misty Terrain, even though Ghostium-Z and Cb dent it.

Once again, good work.
 

snake

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CAP Co-Leader
woo wifi

Like you mentioned, the downfall of Brave Bird in my eye is that it causes so much recoil - this is why it's not on the Choice Band set - I'll consider slashing it after Toxic since that generally just hits bulky Pokemon. This is also why I put it in OO since it's a great option. This is what I'd think the set would look like if I did put BB in along with Drap's comment about Heal Block

move 1: Spirit Shackle
move 2: Outrage / Brave Bird / Toxic?
move 3: Earthquake / Ice Punch
move 4: Heal Block / Toxic

Move 1 is SS
Move 2 is what you'd use for a Z-Crystal, except when you're using Ghostium, which I think is why you'd use Toxic in that slot
Move 3 is coverage
Move 4 is Heal Block or Toxic

The set is hard to follow now...just a thought, but since Outrage / BB Z-Crystal sets act a little differently than Ghostium maybe separate into two sets for those, but I'm not sure if I like the idea that much.

EDIT: CB Brave Bird does 74.3 - 87.9% (32.8 - 38.8% recoil damage) to Tomohawk, if Tomohawk's Rocky Helmet, then you're almost always 2HKOing yourself
 
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Drapionswing

Eating it up, YUMMY!
is a CAP Contributor Alumnus
woo wifi

Like you mentioned, the downfall of Brave Bird in my eye is that it causes so much recoil - this is why it's not on the Choice Band set - I'll consider slashing it after Toxic since that generally just hits bulky Pokemon. This is also why I put it in OO since it's a great option. This is what I'd think the set would look like if I did put BB in along with Drap's comment about Heal Block

move 1: Spirit Shackle
move 2: Outrage / Brave Bird / Toxic?
move 3: Earthquake / Ice Punch
move 4: Heal Block / Toxic
If running Ghostium Z You'd probably want Ice Punch and EQ both on the same set. I also don't know if Toxic should be slashed twice, I can't think of a scenario where I'd run Heal Block and Toxic on a Z set because it's not bulky enough to make efficient usage out of it.
 

LucarioOfLegends

Master Procraster
is a CAP Contributor
Hey here's an amcheck for ya

[OVERVIEW]

- Pajantom's niche lies in its access to Spirit Shackle, which allows it to trap opposing Pokemon and prevent double switches.
- Combined with a high Attack stat, great speed tier of 101, and good Special bulk, Pajantom can abuse this trait in many ways.
- It can lure and KO certain defensive mons with certain Z-moves, without the fear of the target switching out What mons?. Pajantom can also opt to wear down opposing Pokemon with the combination of Toxic, Heal Block, and Protect. Finally, it can opt for power and abuse Spirit Shackle's reliability and its secondary STAB Outrage to 2HKO most of the metagame. Make it clear that the other options are different sets; currently make it sound like they are all options on one set.
- Its only ability Comatose confers a status immunity to Pajantom, ensuing Pajantom doesn't have to worry about being worn down by Toxic damage or crippled by burns or paralysis.
- Finally, it has many resistances, allowing it to tank common moves in the metagame like U-turn, Volt Switch, Discharge, Sludge Bomb, Scald, and Lava Plume. Replace specific mentions of moves with move types. You mostly list moves that are all fishing for status hax, which the reader already knows won't work thanks to the Coma point.

- However, despite its own niche at trapping opposing mons, Pajantom's greatest weakness is Pursuit trapping. While it has the tools to circumvent most Pursuit users, running these moves usually hinders Pajantom's sets. Who are these Pursuit users?
- Additionally, it commonly runs Toxic and usually needs Toxic support from its teammates to fully abuse its offensive presence. Why is this bad? Does it mean it can't run important coverage?
- Also, Pajantom has no recovery outside of Leftovers, as even Rest is blocked by Comatose, so it can be worn down very fast without team support.

[SET]
name: Z-Crystal Nuke
move 1: Spirit Shackle
move 2: Outrage / Ice Punch
move 3: Earthquake / Ice Punch
move 4: Heal Block / Toxic
item: Dragonium Z / Ghostium Z
ability: Comatose
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 Atk / 252 Atk / 252 Spe Pretty sure you mean 4 HP

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

- Spirit Shackle is a reliable Ghost-type STAB move that traps opposing Pokemon upon contact, notably OHKOing Mega Latios after Stealth Rock damage. As a bonus, it avoids contact, meaning Rocky Helmet Tomohawk and Tornadus and Iron Barbs Ferrothorn will not chip it down. You use the word "contact" twice in two different contexts, could confuse the reader.
- Outrage is a powerful secondary STAB move that becomes a powerful 195 Base Power Devastating Drake in combination with Dragonium Z, dealing massive damage to weakened defensive Pokemon like Toxapex, Pyroak, Zapdos, and Tomohawk, as well as OHKOing Colossoil on the switch-in. Using "powerful" twice twice.
- Earthquake is a reliable move that 2HKOs Assault Vest Magearna and Krilowatt and OHKOs Crucibelle and Heatran.
- Ice Punch chips down Landorus-T and bulky Jumbao resulting in a 2HKOs after some chip damage, as well as almost OHKOing Zygarde and 2HKOing Colossoil. It should be run over Outrage if Pajantom forgoes Dragonium Z for Ghostium Z.
- Heal Block prevents the opponent from using its healing move, such as Tomohawk and Zapdos's Roost and Arghonaut and Toxapex's Recover. Why is this important for Pajantom?
- Toxic wears down physically bulky Pokemon like Pyroak and Tomohawk, so that Pajantom or a teammate can take care of them more easily, which can be more useful than Heal Block for certain teams.
- Brave Bird + Flyinium Z can OHKO Tomohawk after Spirit Shackle damage, as well as nuke Pyroak, Mega Venusaur, and Tangrowth, but it's more team-specific than Devastating Drake due to the lack of STAB boost.
- Iron Tail + Steelium Z can lure Clefable and Jumbao for massive damage, but its coverage is even weaker than that of Brave Bird.
252 Atk Pajantom Supersonic Skystrike (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Jumbao: 432-510 (111.3 - 131.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO after Leftovers recovery
While Paj does have to deal with recoil, Brave Bird is objectively better as a coverage move for Jumbao (Wish Support EVs thanks to Funbot analysis) especially when combined with Flyinium Z. Only thing that Z Iron Tail hits consistently is Clefable, and if you whiff it on something bad then your stuck with a move with lower accuracy and not that great coverage. I'd cut the mention and move Iron Tail down to OO.


Set Details
========

- Full EV investment in Attack and Speed maximizes Pajantom’s offensive presence.
- Jolly is preferred because Pajantom can outspeed Tapu Lele, Zapdos, and Mega Medicham.
- Comatose is Pajantom’s only ability, but it grants Pajantom an immunity to status moves, allowing it to switch into weak Scald, Discharge, Lava Plume, and Sludge Bomb, as well as status inducing moves with no repercussions.
- The choice of Z-move is largely team dependent, especially when considering what defensive tanks or walls that Pajantom needs to remove for sweeping teammates.
- Dragonium Z is the most powerful, capable of OHKOing most offensive switch-ins and knocking out non-resistant defensive Pokemon with sufficient chip damage.
- Ghostium Z can surprise Steel-types like Ferrothorn and Celesteela, but both can Protect and tank the Z-move rather easily.
- Other Z-Crystals, such as Flyinium Z and Steelium Z can be used with other coverage moves to hit whatever defensive threat is needed, but the STAB boost on Dragonium Z and Ghostium Z are more consistent due to the STAB boost. Cut the Steelium mention for reasons above.

Usage Tips
========

- Z-Move Pajantom uses Spirit Shackle trapping in order to fire off its Z-move at the appropriate moment.
- Early-game, it’s best to spam Spirit Shackle, wearing down the opposing team and giving Pajantom’s teammates safer switches by preventing double switches. In doing so, you can read what the opponent’s answers to Pajantom are.
- Even though this set aims to trap more defensive switch-ins, offensive switch-ins generally have a harder time tanking hits from Pajantom. This means that defensive switch-ins can be chipped down with Spirit Shackle and hazard damage pretty quickly. You jump around a lot here. I think what your try to say is that since offensive switch-ins can't reliably go into Paj, the opponents are much more likely to go to the defensive switch-ins, hence making it easier to wear them down. Make that clearer in the second sentence.
- Once the defensive check have been sufficiently worn down, use Pajantom’s Z-move to eliminate a trapped threat for a sweeping teammate. Although it may seem tempting to eliminate the trapped Pokemon prematurely, the set fails to do its job if the wall is able to heal off the damage from the Z-move.
- Pay attention in particular to opposing Colossoil, as Pursuit and Sucker Punch are difficult to deal with. It might be best to double out of Pajantom if Colossoil is present. However, if there’s nothing for Pajantom to trap specifically, Dragonium Z can be used on the switch-in to OHKO.
- Against offensive teams, Pajantom is able to disrupt offensive momentum with Spirit Shackle and use its coverage and Z-move on switch-ins.

Team Options
=======

- Choice Scarf Magnezone is one of the best teammates for Pajantom, as Pajantom lures and prevents opposing Steel-types from switching out, which Magnezone can then trap and beat. Magnezone can also take out troublesome Fairy-types like Clefable or Jumbao for Pajantom. In return, Pajantom can trap and kill bulky Pokémon that wouldn’t care about Magnezone, including Pyroak or Zapdos.
- Sweepers that appreciate a certain defensive Pokemon eliminated appreciate Pajantom’s support; however, this set requires a Z-move to perform best. The set always run a Z-move, that's why its called Z-Crystal Nuke :/ What are you trying to say here? Examples are Life Orb Quiver Dance Aurumoth, Choice Scarf Kartana, Dragon Dance Zygarde, Swords Dance Mega Pinsir, and Coil Mega Crucibelle.
- Teammates that can deal with Pursuit trappers like Colossoil, Tyranitar, and Weavile prevent Pajantom from being trapped itself. Examples include Tomohawk, Jumbao, and Mega Scizor.
- Wish users and Healing Wish users like Clefable, Jumbao, and Tomohawk can keep Pajantom healthy for mid-to-late game.
- Heatran can create a trapping core thingamajig with Paj as Wenderz mentioned. Functions kinda similarly to Magnezone, kill Steels and Fairies. Add it somewhere, probably after Magnezone since its on the subject of trapping still.

[SET]
name: Rat With Wings Special (Specially Defensive)
move 1: Spirit Shackle
move 2: Toxic
move 3: Protect
move 4: Heal Block
item: Leftovers
ability: Comatose
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

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

- Spirit Shackle traps the opposing Pokemon until Pajantom switches out and hits every Pokemon in the metagame except for Chansey. Even without Attack investment, it still OHKOs Tapu Lele and Medicham-Mega, allowing Pajantom to OHKO them on the switch-in.
- Toxic wears down trapped Pokemon, unable to reset the Toxic timer by switching out if trapped.
- Protect allows Pajantom to scout for unfavorable moves such as Knock Off from Pokemon that do not usually run it. It also gives Pajantom a free turn of important Leftovers recovery, and rack up Toxic damage.
- Heal Block prevents the opponent from healing, preventing Leftovers recovery, Tomohawk’s Roost, or Pyroak’s Leech Seed. Heal Block’s long duration allows Pajantom more freedom to use its other moves without having to reset it as often. I don't like this second sentence. It doesn't tell why I should use it, but instead on how to use it, which seems way more fitting for Usage Tips. This move notably allows Pajantom to trap and kill Toxapex, even though it is immune to Toxic, as it takes a good chunk of damage from Spirit Shackle.

Set Details
========

- Maximum HP and Special Defense EV investment and a Careful nature makes Pajantom as specially bulky as possible, allowing it tank weaker attacks from bulky Pokemon like Toxapex’s Scald, Tomohawk’s Air Slash, Pyroak’s Earth Power or Lava Plume, Zapdos’s Discharge or Hidden Power Ice, and Cyclohm’s Discharge. It can take any of Pyroak's attacks great. No need to single out specific ones when they all do jack all. Similar case with Zapdos, although HP Ice is the most damaging move in its arsenal.
- Alternatively, an Adamant nature and some EVs invested in Attack can be used to break Tomohawk’s Substitute with Spirit Shackle, but the drop in bulk is noticeable.
- Comatose gives Pajantom a status immunity, which means Pajantom can’t take residual damage from toxic and burn.
- Leftovers is Pajantom’s only source of recovery, which allows it to heal off damage as Toxic damage racks up on the opponent.

Usage Tips
========

- Bulky Pajantom focuses on whittling down the opponent with Toxic and denying their recovery, rather than overloading a Pokemon with damage.
- Spirit Shackle should be used against predicted switches, Pokemon who can’t do much damage to Pajantom, and non-Knock Off users.
- It might be better to Toxic a predicted switch in like Greninja, who doesn’t care about the Spirit Shackle damage.
- Using Protect against potential Knock Off users like Toxapex, Arghonaut, and Mew ensures Pajantom won’t lose its Leftovers. If it does have Knock Off, switch out Pajantom, unless the passive recovery is no longer needed.
- Once trapped, use Toxic to wear down trapped switch-ins, following up with Heal Block to prevent recovery. Using Protect to stall out that Toxic damage is also a good idea I heard.
- Switching into defensive Tomohawk is very safe and important, as it blocks Tomohawk’s Rapid Spin, keeping hazards on the opposing side of the field. However, watch out switching into an offensive set, as Life Orb Hurricane heavily compromises Pajantom’s ability to switch in later.

Team Options
========

- Pajantom naturally lures in Steel-types like Celesteela, Mega Scizor, and Ferrothorn, so it appreciates partners who beat Steel-types. Magnezone pairs well as a dual trapping core, ensuring that Ferrothorn and Celesteela are eliminated, and that Mega Scizor must U-turn rather than Defog. Strong Fire-type nukes like Volkraken, Mega Charizard X, and Heatran and Ground-types like Colossoil, Landorus-T, and Zygarde can hit these Steel-types super effectively. By having teammates that defeat Steel-types efficiently, Pajantom can more easily trap and wear down the opposing team with Toxic. I think this last sentence should be earlier in the point, if not combined with that first sentence.
- Pajantom also lures in Fairy-types like Clefable and Jumbao, so good switch-ins that can capitalize on trapped Fairy-type are excellent partners. Mega Crucibelle is an excellent switch-in, tanking Moonblast with its naturally high Special Defense, forcing a switch with Gunk Shot, and gaining momentum with U-turn. Heatran functions the same way, using the free turn for trapping a following switch-in or setting Stealth Rock.
- Hazard setters such as Heatran, Landorus-T, Clefable, Arghonaut, and Greninja help Pajantom wear down the opposing team faster. In return, Pajantom can weaken or remove a defensive Pokemon that might wall these potential teammates.
- Although Pajantom appreciates hazard removal, it vastly prefers teammates with Rapid Spin so that opposing hazards can stay up. Tomohawk, Colossoil, and Excadrill both work well in this regard. However, Defog users like Landorus-T and Tornadus-T also work.
- Pajantom’s largest weakness is easily Pursuit trapping, forcing it to perform double switches while a Pursuit trapper is healthy. Therefore, Pokemon with a positive matchup against Colossoil, Tyranitar, and Weavile are mandatory teammates. Mega Sczior, Tomohawk, Jumbao, Clefable, and Tapu Bulu deal with some or all of these Pokemon effectively and provide other utility that Pajantom appreciates.
- Wish users like Clefable, Jumbao, and Chansey ensure that Pajantom stays healthy, meaning that it has recovery outside of Leftovers.

[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Spirit Shackle
move 2: Outrage
move 3: Earthquake / Iron Tail
move 4: Toxic
item: Choice Band
ability: Comatose
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

- Spirit Shackle is spammable, has good coverage on its own, and makes switching into an appropriate teammate easier by not allowing double switches. It's good power and coverage allows it to OHKO or 2HKO most targets in the metagame.
- Outrage's high base power allows Pajantom to OHKO or 2HKO most targets that Spirit Shackle doesn't. Notably it can OHKO Colossoil and Greninja, 2HKO defensive Zapdos, specially defensive Pyroak, and Landorus-T.
- Earthquake generally has good coverage and can OHKO Heatran, Magearna, and Mega Crucibelle so that Pajantom isn't forced out after failing to OHKO with Spirit Shackle. This last part makes it sound like you can switch to using Earthquake after failing to OHKO with SS, and is generally confusing. I'd axe it. It also removes Tyranitar before it can try to Pursuit trap Pajantom.
- Iron Tail allows Pajantom to 2HKO Clefable and OHKO Jumbao and Tyranitar after Stealth Rock damage.
- Toxic is necessary to catch Tomohawk, Pyroak, Zapdos, and other bulky walls on the switch-in to wear them down so that later in the match they are easier to KO with Spirit Shackle or Outrage.

Set Details
========

- Maximum Attack EV investment with a Choice Band ensures Pajantom hits as hard as possible.
- The Speed EV investment and Jolly nature allows Pajantom to outspeed Mega Medicham, Zygarde, Tapu Lele, and Choice Specs Volkraken. Add unboosted Mega Charizard X
- Comatose prevents paralysis’s speed drop and burn’s attack drop, as well as preserving Pajantom’s HP for tanking attacks rather than Toxic damage.

Usage Tips
========

- This set forgoes trapping specific Pokemon and instead focuses on dealing maximum damage while spreading status. You advertise Toxic here massively, yet don't mention it in your opening sentence.
- Toxic should generally be used early-game so that walls have a timer on them for most of the match. What if they are going to switch into a Steel-type?
- After Toxic is spread, Spirit Shackle is a good move to spam due to its good power and ability to prevent double switches.
- Outrage should be used when Steel-types have been removed or weakened so not to forfeit much momentum. Paj has to be wary on using Outrage if there are still Fairies on the field tho, as you pretty much give them free momentum.
- If running Iron Tail, it is best for Pajantom to lure in Fairy-types to either KO them on the switch or force them out with the threat of a second Iron Tail. Otherwise, Earthquake should be used when a Ground-type weak target or comes in but you don't want to lock into Outrage. Your point is lost in bad grammar, fix it.

Team Options
========

- Choice Scarf or Electrium Z Magnezone can trap the Steel-types that Pajantom lures in and traps with Spirit Shackle.
- Sweepers who use a Z-move such as Aurumoth, Shift Gear Magearna, and Volcarona appreciate this set's trapping support, as it doesn't require a Z-move itself.
- Hazard setters like Ferrothorn, Greninja, Landorus-T, and Tomohawk can wear down the opposing team, allowing Pajantom to nab KOs more easily with its powerful STAB moves.
- If running Iron Tail to lure Fairy-types, Dragon Dance Zygarde can sweep much more easily without having to worry about Clefable and Jumbao walling it.
- Hazard removers like Tornadus-T and Colossoil can help Pajantom preserve its HP by not losing it to hazards.
- Teammates that can deal with Pursuit users like Arghonaut, Clefable, Tomohawk, and Jumbao help Pajantom overcome its shortcoming of being Pursuit trapped.
- Healing Wish support from Tomohawk and Jumbao or Wish support from Clefable or Jumbao allows Pajantom to continue firing off powerful STAB attacks for more of the match.

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

- Substitute protects Pajantom from Sucker Punch users like Colossoil and Mega Mawile, but it eats up a valuable moveslot, and Pajantom already has a status immunity.
- Pajantom can set Toxic Spikes to wear down opponents as well, but because they do not affect Tomohawk, Pajantom finds Toxic more useful.
- Psychic Fangs + Psychium Z, in tandem with Psychic Terrain and, can OHKO defensive Tomohawk, as well as OHKO Arghonaut.
- Leech Life hits Dark-types for super effective damage and heals Pajantom, but its overlapping coverage with Spirit Shackle makes it a subpar option.
- Stone Edge can hit Pyroak and Zapdos super effectively in the one slot, but Dragonium Z is generally more useful.

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

**Pursuit Users**: Colossoil, Tyranitar, and Weavile force Pajantom to play very carefully. Although they might not have the easiest time switching into offensive sets, the specially defensive set can't do much to them aside from chipping them with a resisted Spirit Shackle or landing a Toxic. Colossoil can use Sucker Punch to make the match up even more dicey, while Weavile natural outspeeds and threatens Pajantom with Icicle Crash as well.

**Faster Pokemon**: Many Pokemon can come in on Pajantom and threaten it offensively. Greninja, Syclant, and Krilowatt all threaten with Ice Beam, while Mega Crucibelle, Mega Latios, and Tapu Koko threaten with STAB Head Smash, Draco Meteor, and Dazzling Gleam, respectively. Choice Scarfers like Jumbao and Tapu Lele also threaten Pajantom with STAB Moonblast.

**Steel-types**: Mega Scizor is Pajantom's hardest counter, but its heavily pressured to do its job if Pajantom is paired with Magnezone. Ferrothorn and Celesteela fall into the same boat, but they are vulnerable to Ghostium Z sets. I need you to elaborate more on this point. Why are these Pokemon such good counters for Pajantom?

**Clefable**: Clefable can tank most of Pajantom's moves, wear it down with Moonblast, and doesn't care about Toxic. However, it doesn't like Heal Block sets, which prevent its recovery, and Iron Tail, which hits it super effectively.

**Knock Off**: Arghonaut, Toxapex, and Tornadus-T can all use a super effective Knock Off against specially defensive Pajantom, which heavily damages it and removes Leftovers, its only form of recovery. However, Pajantom can scout for Knock Off using Protect. Add Kart here. Knock Off also works great against Choice Band.

**Careful Use of Defensive Pokemon**: If Pajantom cannot successfully wear down defensive Pokemon like Tomohawk, Pyroak, and Zapdos over the course of the battle, they can outlast Pajantom's attempts to nuke them with a Z-move or overcome Pajantom by KOing it first.

You have a tendency to make your points really murky in their wordings sometimes, but otherwise solid work. I was being really picky here.

QC 1/3
 
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[Overview]

- Its only ability Comatose confers a status immunity to Pajantom, ensuing Pajantom doesn't have to worry about being worn down by Toxic damage or crippled by burns or paralysis.
Mention that Comatose lets it act like a status absorber for its entire team.

- However, despite its own niche at trapping opposing mons, Pajantom's greatest weakness is Pursuit trapping. While it has the tools to circumvent most Pursuit users like Colossoil, Tyranitar, Weavile, and Malaconda, running these moves usually hinders Pajantom's sets.
Weavile's never going to attempt to switch in so there's really no way to circumvent this one.

You should probably talk about its wide movepool which essentially lets it pick its Checks and Counters. Also, maybe you could talk a bit more about its Speed tier which lets it outspeed base 100 Speed Pokemon such as Mega Medicham etc.

[Z-Move Nuke]

[Set]

I'd really like to see Steelium Z slashed because between Ghostium Z, Dragonium Z, and Steelium Z, Pajantom picks its Checks and Counters.

[Moves]

As a bonus, it avoids contact, meaning Rocky Helmet Tomohawk and Tornadus and Iron Barbs Ferrothorn will not chip it down.
These Pokemon don't really want to be switching into Pajantom at all, so idk how notable this is. Mention what Never-Ending Nightmare does for Pajantom.

- Earthquake is a reliable move that 2HKOs Assault Vest Magearna and Krilowatt and OHKOs Crucibelle and Heatran.
Mega Crucibelle is a lot more notable than just Crucibelle.

- Heal Block prevents the opponent from using its healing move, such as Tomohawk and Zapdos's Roost and Arghonaut and Toxapex's Recover, which allows Pajantom to wear down the opponent into Z-move range.
It also saps Clefable's momentum because you basically force it to click Soft-Boiled, which is very notable, though it's a bit unreliable.

- Toxic wears down physically bulky Pokemon like Pyroak and Tomohawk, so that Pajantom or a teammate can take care of them more easily, which can be more useful than Heal Block for certain teams.
Just be direct and say it pressures them to recover more often.

[Usage Tips]

- Against offensive teams, Pajantom is able to disrupt offensive momentum with Spirit Shackle and use its coverage and Z-move on switch-ins.
This isn't a usage tip.

[Team Options]

- Heatran is another option for a double trapping core, as its Magma Storm also limits the opposing team's options. As a bonus, Heatran takes care of Steel- and Fairy-types, which Pajantom cannot deal with.
That's dependant on Pajantom's whether its got Earthquake or not and what Z-Move it's running.

You could add a point about hazards to consistently weaken Pokemon that attempt to switch into Pajantom.

[Rat With Wings Special (Specially Defensive)]

[Moves]

- Heal Block has a long four-turn duration and prevents the opponent from healing, preventing Leftovers recovery, Tomohawk’s Roost, or Pyroak’s Leech Seed. This move notably allows Pajantom to trap and kill Toxapex, even though it is immune to Toxic, as it takes a good chunk of damage from Spirit Shackle.
Why is killing Toxapex more notable than killing Tomohawk?

[Set Details]

- Alternatively, an Adamant nature and some EVs invested in Attack can be used to break Tomohawk’s Substitute with Spirit Shackle, but the drop in bulk is noticeable.
Tomohawk doesn't run Substitute very often, I believe this spread is largely useless and should be dropped.

- Comatose gives Pajantom a status immunity, which means Pajantom can’t take residual damage from toxic and burn.
The fact that Pajantom cant take residual damage from Toxic and burn is implied when you say it has a status immunity lol.

[Usage Tips]

- Bulky Pajantom focuses on whittling down the opponent with Toxic and denying their recovery, rather than overloading a Pokemon with damage.
I think saying "whittling down usual switchins..." is more accurate.

Pokemon who can’t do much damage to Pajantom, and non-Knock Off users.
Pokemon who can't do much damage to Pajantom and non-Knock Off users are basically the same.

- Using Protect against potential Knock Off users like Toxapex, Arghonaut, and Mew ensures Pajantom won’t lose its Leftovers. If it does have Knock Off, switch out Pajantom, unless the passive recovery is no longer needed.
It's always needed.

Add a bullet on Heal Blocking Clefable imo, it's risky but definitely worth the pay off if they do not attack.

[Team Options]

Ground-types like Colossoil, Landorus-T, and Zygarde can hit these Steel-types super effectively.
Literally none of them are hit super effectively, other than Celesteela after being smacked down to the ground.

- Although Pajantom appreciates hazard removal, it vastly prefers teammates with Rapid Spin so that opposing hazards can stay up. Tomohawk, Colossoil, and Excadrill both work well in this regard. However, Defog users like Landorus-T and Tornadus-T also work.
Excadrill is bad and isn't used on Pajantom teams.

Definitely add a bullet on Pokemon that appreciate Pajantom's ability to remove certain walls.

[Choice Band]

[Usage Tips]

- If running Iron Tail, Pajantom should use the move on a predicted Fairy-type switch-in. Otherwise, Earthquake can lure and remove opposing Steel-types hoping to switch in on an Outrage.
You definitely want to make them confident with switching in by clicking Spirit Shackle a few times first.

[Other Options]

- Pajantom can set Toxic Spikes to wear down opponents as well, but because they do not affect Tomohawk, Pajantom finds Toxic more useful.
I think a bigger reason to run it is to support teammates.

- Psychic Fangs + Psychium Z, in tandem with Psychic Terrain and, can OHKO defensive Tomohawk, as well as OHKO Arghonaut.
Z-Brave Bird basically does this with Spirit Shackle damage, I see absolutely no reason why I'd use this, ever.

- Although most Pursuit users are Dark-type, Leech Life's overlapping coverage with Spirit Shackle usually prevents it from being a good option. Additionally, these Pursuit users are hit hard by Devastating Drake or Pajantom's other more reliable coverage moves.
Leech Life doesn't have a niche on Pajantom at all, so don't mention it.

[Checks and Counters]

Malaconda is a niche Pursuit user that can tackle specially defensive sets with relative ease but has to play very carefully around offensive variants.
Also has Sucker Punch so it forces Pajantom into mind games.

**Clefable**: Clefable can tank even Choice Band-boosted Spirit Shackle, wear it down with Moonblast, heal off the damage with Softboiled, and doesn't care about Toxic. However, it doesn't like Heal Block sets, which prevent its recovery, and Iron Tail, which hits it super effectively.
Make this Fairy-types and talk about Jumbao aswell.
 
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snake

is a Community Leaderis a Top CAP Contributoris a Contributor to Smogon
CAP Co-Leader
Hey look I updated this to conform to new analysis standards, got rid of Choice Band, and implemented Jordy's amcheck
 
[Overview]

- Alternatively, a bulkier set wears down opposing Pokemon with the combination of Toxic, Heal Block, and Protect.
I think you should say something along the lines of like "Alternatively, a specially defensive set is a nice catch all for most defensive Pokemon(z-move paj has to pick, spdef beats most fat mons) and check to Pokemon like Volkraken and Heatran."

It also allows Pajantom to act as a status absorber for its team.
This is self explanatory.

- Finally, its many resistances allows it to take advantage of its good bulk, able to tank a weak, trapped Pokemon's moves with ease.
Give examples of these Pokemon, Tomohawk and Toxapex come to mind, for example.

- Its only ability Comatose confers a status immunity to Pajantom, preventing it from being worn down by Toxic damage or crippled by burns or paralysis.
I think it's important to note what this actually helps Pajantom with, Heatran and Toxapex come to mind.

- However, despite its own niche at trapping opposing mons
This is fluff, so cut it.

- Also, Pajantom has no recovery outside of Leftovers, as even Rest is blocked by Comatose, so it can be worn down very fast without team support.
I don't think you have to explain why Rest can't be used; it's not useful information for the reader to learn about Pajantom.

[Z-Crystal Trapper]

[Set]

[SET]
name: Z-Crystal Trapper
move 1: Spirit Shackle
move 2: Earthquake / Ice Punch
move 3: Ice Punch / Outrage / Iron Tail
move 4: Heal Block
item: Dragonium Z / Ghostium Z
ability: Comatose
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
I don't really understand. Why's Dragonium Z front slashed and Outrage isn't? (Make Ghostium Z frontslash). Also, I don't think you should slash Iron Tail, just leave it at a moves mention.

[Moves]

Explain Heal Block, feel free to explain Spirit Shackle as well to give the reader a better view of what Pajantom attempts to do.

[Set Details]

- A Jolly nature is preferred to outspeed Tapu Lele, offensive Zapdos, and Mega Medicham.
Offensive Zapdos isn't a thing, just say 3 Attacks Zapdos.

- Ghostium Z is Pajantom's best option for wearing down opposing Steel-types, as Never-Ending Nightmare....
Finish this sentence, idk what you're trying to say.

- Dragonium Z allows Pajantom to use Devastating Drake, removing weakened defensive Pokemon like Toxapex, Pyroak, Zapdos, and Tomohawk, as well as OHKOing Colossoil on the switch-in.
Pyroak does nothing to Pajantom, I'd never use my Z-Move to overwhelm it when I can just use Heal Block and wear it down.

[Usage Tips]

- Against offensive teams, Pajantom is able to disrupt offensive momentum with Spirit Shackle and use its coverage and Z-move on switch-ins.
It's kinda weird to have this as the last bullet when this doesn't really tie in with anything.

Talk about when to use Heal Block etc.

[Team Options]

- Sweepers that appreciate a certain defensive Pokemon eliminated appreciate Pajantom’s support; however, the sweeper cannot also rely on a Z Crystal. Examples include Life Orb Quiver Dance Aurumoth, Choice Scarf Kartana, Dragon Dance Zygarde, Swords Dance Mega Pinsir, and Coil Mega Crucibelle.
"Certain defensive Pokemon" isn't useful at all; give some examples. Add Double Dance Magearna btw.

- Wish users and Healing Wish users like Clefable, Jumbao, and Tomohawk can keep Pajantom healthy for mid-to-late game.
Remove these.

Add hazards.

[Specially Defensive]

[Moves]

- Even without Attack investment, Spirit Shackle still OHKOs Tapu Lele and Medicham-Mega, allowing Pajantom to OHKO them on the switch-in.
Instead of this, you should focus on what Pajantom attempts to achieve with Spirit Shackle.

[Set Details]

It's probably worth to put emphasis on how important Comatose is for this set.

[Usage Tips]

Protect is useful to scout typically Choice-locked Pokemon.

[Team Options]

- Pajantom also lures in Fairy-types like Clefable and Jumbao, so good switch-ins that can capitalize on trapped Fairy-type are excellent partners. Mega Crucibelle is an excellent switch-in, tanking Moonblast with its naturally high Special Defense, forcing a switch with Gunk Shot, and gaining momentum with U-turn. Heatran functions the same way, using the free turn for trapping a following switch-in or setting Stealth Rock.
Better see a mention of this giving Magearna free setup opportunities.

- Since Pajantom excels wearing down or removing essential members of opposing balance cores, sweepers like Ash-Greninja, Shift Gear Magearna, and Hawlucha make for good teammates.
Ash-Greninja's not really a sweeper and I don't feel like Hawlucha's a particularly notable teammate.

- Wish users like Clefable, Jumbao, and Chansey ensure that Pajantom stays healthy, meaning that it has recovery outside of Leftovers.
Chansey's way too passive to use it with Pajantom.

Toxic Spikes and Spikes are super good with Pajantom so add that.

[Other Options]

- Brave Bird + Flyinium Z can OHKO Tomohawk after Spirit Shackle damage, as well as nuke Pyroak, Jumbao, Mega Venusaur, and Tangrowth, but it's more team-specific than Devastating Drake due to the lack of STAB boost.
No, it's more team-specific because the combination of Ghostium Z and Dragonium Z literally does the exact same, just remove this all together imo.

- Substitute protects Pajantom from Sucker Punch users like Colossoil and Mega Mawile, but it eats up a valuable moveslot, and Pajantom already has a status immunity.
Nobody's ever going to use this so drop it.

- Stone Edge can hit Pyroak and Zapdos super effectively in the one slot, but Devastating Drake is usually more reliable.
Drop this too.

[Checks and Counters]

Many Pokemon can come in on Pajantom and threaten it offensively.
It's worth noting that you shouldn't be directly switching them in.

**Careful Use of Defensive Pokemon**: If Pajantom cannot successfully wear down defensive Pokemon like Tomohawk, Pyroak, and Zapdos over the course of the battle, they can outlast Pajantom's attempts to nuke them with a Z-move or overcome Pajantom by KOing it first.
This is really obvious and doesn't really belong anywhere else in the analysis so you should remove this.

2/3, nice job
 

LucarioOfLegends

Master Procraster
is a CAP Contributor
Quality Control: QC1 / QC2 / QC3
Grammar & Prose: GP1 / GP2

[OVERVIEW]

Pajantom's niche lies in its access to Spirit Shackle, which allows it to trap opposing Pokemon and prevent double switches. Its speed tier ensures that it can outspeed Mega Medicham and Choice Specs Volkraken if invested, and most defensive Pokemon in the metagame if it opts to run its slower, bulkier set. Pajantom can trap and remove prominent these defensive Pokemon, such as Toxapex, Tomohawk, and Clefable with a Z-move without the fear of the target switching out. With its wide movepool, this set can essentially pick its checks and counters. Alternatively, a specially defensive variant is a good blanket trapper for most defensive Pokemon and checks powerful Fire-types like Volkraken and Heatran. Pajantom has a lot of defensive utility, as its many resistances and good bulk allow Pajantom to tank weak moves from Pokemon like Tomohawk, Toxapex, Zapdos, and Gastrodon. Additionally, Comatose confers a status immunity to Pajantom, preventing it from being worn down by toxic and burn damage, which helps against Lava Plume Heatran and Toxapex. Also makes sure a wallbreak isn't stopped by burns However, Pajantom's greatest weakness is Pursuit trapping, making it hard to land multiple KOes when the opposing team has a Weavile, Colossoil, or Tyranitar. Also, Pajantom has no recovery outside of Leftovers, so it can be worn down very fast without team support.

[SET]
name: Z-Crystal Trapper
move 1: Spirit Shackle
move 2: Earthquake / Ice Punch
move 3: Ice Punch / Outrage
move 4: Heal Block
item: Ghostium Z / Dragonium Z
ability: Comatose
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

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

Spirit Shackle prevents the opponent from switching out, allowing Pajantom to fire off its Z-move safely. Earthquake is a reliable move that 2HKOs Magearna and Krilowatt and OHKOs Mega Crucibelle and Heatran. Ice Punch chips down Landorus-T and bulky Jumbao, 2HKOing them after some chip damage, as well as almost OHKOing Zygarde and 2HKOing Colossoil. If Pajantom runs Dragonium Z, Outrage should replace one of Earthquake or Ice Punch. Iron Tail, in combination with Steelium Z, is a more specific option to remove Clefable and Jumbao, as they are nearly OHKOed by Corkscrew Crash. If run, Iron Tail should replace one of Earthquake or Ice Punch. Heal Block denies the opposing Pokemon's recovery, making it significantly easier to wear down and KO.

Set Details
========

A Jolly nature is preferred to outspeed Tapu Lele, 3 attacks Zapdos, and Mega Medicham. Ghostium Z is Pajantom's best option for wearing down opposing Steel-types, as Never-Ending Nightmare deals over half of Celesteela and Ferrothorn's HP. Also, Pajantom can use this Z-move to overcome bulky Fairy-types like Clefable and Jumbao in combination with Heal Block pressure. Dragonium Z allows Pajantom to use Devastating Drake, removing weakened most defensive Pokemon like Toxapex, Zapdos, and Tomohawk, as well as OHKOing Colossoil on the switch-in. Beginning of sentence reads a lil funky, mostly a nitpick If running Iron Tail, Steelium Z should be run.

Usage Tips
========

Early-game, it’s best to spam Spirit Shackle, wearing down the opposing team and giving Pajantom’s teammates safer switches by preventing double switches. In doing so, you can read what the opponent’s answers to Pajantom are. Even though this set aims to trap more defensive switch-ins, offensive switch-ins generally have a harder time tanking hits from Pajantom. This means defensive switch-ins are more likely to switch in, despite the looming threat of the trap, allowing Pajantom to wear them down or perform a double switch. Using Heal Block after the opponent is trapped makes it easier for Pajantom to wear down Pokemon into Z-move range. Preventing Ferrothorn, Pyroak, and Celesteela from having their Leech Seed recovery is essential. Once the defensive check have been sufficiently worn down, use Pajantom’s Z-move to eliminate a trapped threat for a sweeping teammate. Although it may seem tempting to eliminate the trapped Pokemon prematurely, the set fails to do its job if the wall is able to heal off the damage from the Z-move. But it can't do so when its been Heal Block'd so... Even if the team doesn't have a defined defensive backbone, Pajantom is able to disrupt offensive momentum with Spirit Shackle and use its coverage and Z-move on switch-ins. Pay attention in particular to opposing Pursuit users. If the opponent has one, it's important not to let Pajantom give these Pokemon a free switch in. If Pajantom gets a KO, it leaves itself vulnerable to the Pursuit user. So what do you do? This kinda just says something like its going to tell you what do in these situations, but leaves me disappointed. Slower Pursuit trappers like Colossoil, Malaconda, and Tyranitar can be removed with Devastating Drake; though Colossoil and Malaconda commonly run Sucker Punch. A healthy Weavile can switch into and survive Earthquake, Ice Punch or Spirit Shackle, so switching out as it comes in is generally a better play.

Team Options
=======

Choice Scarf Magnezone is one of the best teammates for Pajantom, as Pajantom lures and prevents opposing Steel-types from switching out, which Magnezone can then trap and beat. Magnezone can also take out troublesome Fairy-types like Clefable or Jumbao for Pajantom. In return, Pajantom can trap and kill bulky Pokémon that wouldn’t care about Magnezone, including Pyroak or Zapdos. Heatran is another option for a double trapping core, as its Magma Storm also limits the opposing team's options. As a bonus, Heatran takes care of Steel- and Fairy-types, allowing Pajantom to run Dragonium Z and Ice Punch more easily. In return, Pajantom can remove Pokemon like Arghonaut and Trace Jumbao for Heatran. Sweepers appreciate Pajantom’s support; however, the sweeper cannot also rely on a Z Crystal. Life Orb Aurumoth appreciates Ghostium Z Pajantom removing Celesteela, setup Zygarde likes Tangrowth and Jumbao out of the way, Swords Dance Mega Pinsir sweeps better with Cyclohm and Zapdos removed, and Double Dance Magearna functions better with Toxapex fainted. Offensive hazard setters like Greninja, Syclant, Landorus-T, and Mega Crucibelle can set Spikes or Stealth Rock for Pajantom, wearing down defensive Pokemon into Z-move range faster. In return, Pajantom can remove the defensive Pokemon that wall these offensive setters. Defog Tornadus-T, Landorus-T, and Tapu Koko can Defog away hazards, preventing Pajantom from being worn down over the match. Teammates that can deal with Pursuit trappers like Colossoil, Tyranitar, and Weavile prevent Pajantom from being trapped itself. Examples include Tomohawk, Jumbao, and Mega Scizor.

[SET]
name: Specially Defensive Trapper
move 1: Spirit Shackle
move 2: Toxic
move 3: Protect
move 4: Heal Block
item: Leftovers
ability: Comatose
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

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

Spirit Shackle traps defensive Pokemon and chips them down. Notably, the chip damage against Toxapex is enough to remove it efficeintly. Even without Attack investment, Spirit Shackle still OHKOs Tapu Lele and Medicham-Mega, allowing Pajantom to OHKO them on the switch-in. Protect allows Pajantom [to scout for Knock Off users from Pokemon] funk levels a bit high here, gain an extra turn of Leftovers recovery, and rack up Toxic damage. Heal Block denies a trapped Pokemon from recovering, forcing Pokemon like Tomohawk to submit to Toxic damage or Spirit Shackle chip damage. Why not both tho

Set Details
========

Comatose prevents Pajantom from being worn down by Toxapex's Toxic, Heatran's Lava Plume, and Chansey's Toxic, saving valuable HP. Comatose is literally its only ability, so I don't think you have to mention it. Leftovers is Pajantom’s only source of recovery, which allows it to heal off damage as Toxic damage racks up on the opponent.

Usage Tips
========

Bulky Pajantom focuses on whittling down usual switch-ins with Toxic and denying their recovery, rather than overloading a Pokemon with damage. Spirit Shackle should be used against Pokemon who can’t do much damage to Pajantom switching in. It might be better to Toxic a predicted switch in like Greninja, who doesn’t care about the Spirit Shackle damage. Using Protect against potential Knock Off users like Toxapex, Arghonaut, Tornadus-T, and Mew ensures Pajantom won’t lose its Leftovers. If it does have Knock Off, Pajantom cannot stay in safely. Also, it can scout against Choice item users like Tapu Lele, Syclant, and Ash-Greninja, making it easier to switch to an appropriate teammate or stay in against the resisted move. Once trapped, use Toxic to wear down trapped switch-ins, following up with Heal Block to prevent recovery and Protect to stall for damage and heal with Leftovers. I feel you should specify defensive switch-ins, since that is what this process implies. Pajantom can switch into defensive Tomohawk or Fidgit to spinblock or soak up a weak attack. However, offensive Tomohawk's Hurricane heavily compromises Pajantom’s ability to switch in later. Using Heal Block against a weakened Clefable or Jumbao might seem risky, but if they choose a recovery move, they waste the turn and leave themselves vulnerable to Pajantom's teammates.

Team Options
========

Pajantom naturally lures in Steel-types like Celesteela, Mega Scizor, and Ferrothorn, so it appreciates partners who beat Steel-types. By having teammates that defeat Steel-types efficiently, Pajantom can more easily trap and wear down the opposing team with Toxic. Magnezone pairs well as a dual trapping core, ensuring that Ferrothorn and Celesteela are eliminated, and that Mega Scizor must U-turn rather than Defog. Strong Fire-type nukes like Volkraken, Mega Charizard X, and Heatran and Ground-types like Colossoil, Landorus-T, and Zygarde generally have a positive match-up against these Steel-types as well. Pajantom also lures in Fairy-types like Clefable and Jumbao, so good switch-ins that can capitalize on trapped Fairy-type are excellent partners. Mega Crucibelle is an excellent switch-in, tanking Moonblast with its naturally high Special Defense, forcing a switch with Gunk Shot, and gaining momentum with U-turn. Heatran functions the same way, using the free turn for trapping a following switch-in or setting Stealth Rock. Double Dance Magearna gain a free turn to use Shift Gear and begin its sweep. Celesteela forms a strong defensive core with Pajantom, as Pajantom can deal with strong Fire-types, and Celesteela has a good matchup against Fairy- and Steel-types and can apply more residual damage with Leech Seed. Stealth Rock setters such as Heatran, Landorus-T, and Clefable and Spikes setters like Arghonaut and Greninja help Pajantom wear down the opposing team faster. Toxic Spikes setters like Toxapex allow Pajantom not to have to spend as many turns using Toxic. Although Pajantom appreciates hazard removal, it vastly prefers teammates with Rapid Spin so that opposing hazards can stay up. Tomohawk and Colossoil both work well in this regard. However, Defog users like Landorus-T and Tornadus-T also work. Since Pajantom excels wearing down or removing essential members of opposing balance cores, wallbreakers like Ash-Greninja and Mega Pinsir and sweepers like Shift Gear Magearna and Dragon Dance Zygarde make for good teammates. Pajantom’s largest weakness is easily Pursuit trapping, forcing it to perform double switches while a Pursuit trapper is healthy. Therefore, Pokemon with a positive matchup against Colossoil, Tyranitar, and Weavile are mandatory teammates.. Mega Sczior, Tomohawk, Jumbao, Clefable, and Tapu Bulu deal with some or all of these Pokemon effectively and provide other utility that Pajantom appreciates. Wish users like Clefable and Jumbao ensure that Pajantom stays healthy, meaning that it has recovery outside of Leftovers. I think Pursuit trapper checks should be at least a little higher here, since the problem is considerably worse than with the Z-Trapper set, where can possibly KO them on the switch in or Z-Outrage a few.

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

Pajantom can set Toxic Spikes and trap opposing Poison-types who switch in to absorb them, providing multiple layers of team support. Additionally, Pajantom isn't a Poison-type, unlike most Toxic Spike setters. Why is this a selling point?

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

**Pursuit Users**: Colossoil, Tyranitar, and Weavile force Pajantom to play very carefully. Although they might not have the easiest time switching into offensive sets, the specially defensive set can't do much to them aside from chipping them with a resisted Spirit Shackle or landing a Toxic. Colossoil can use Sucker Punch to make the match up even more dicey, while Weavile natural outspeeds and threatens Pajantom with Icicle Crash as well. Malaconda is a niche Pursuit user that can tackle specially defensive sets with relative ease but can annoy offensive variants with Sucker Punch.

**Faster Pokemon**: Many Pokemon can come in on Pajantom and threaten it offensively. By outspeeding it. Greninja, Syclant, and Krilowatt all threaten with Ice Beam, while Mega Crucibelle, Mega Latios, and Tapu Koko threaten with STAB Head Smash, Draco Meteor, and Dazzling Gleam, respectively. Choice Scarfers like Jumbao and Tapu Lele also threaten Pajantom with STAB Moonblast. However, they have a hard time switching in directly.

**Steel-types**: Mega Scizor is Pajantom's hardest counter, as it can tank any of Pajantom's moves with ease, Roost off the damage, and threaten Pajantom out with a Bullet Punch or Knock Off. Ferrothorn and Celesteela can tank Spirit Shackle quite well and heal off the damage with Leech Seed, but Ghostium Z sets can power through these two. Additionally, these Steel-types have to watch out for Heal Block.

**Bulky Fairy-types**: Clefable and Jumbao can tank Pajantom's Spirit Shackle with ease, wear it down with Moonblast, and heal off the damage with Softboiled or Shore Up. Additionally, Clefable ignores Toxic damage. However, they must play carefully around Heal Block, Never-Ending Nightmare, and Corkscrew Crash.

**Knock Off**: Arghonaut, Toxapex, Kartana, and Tornadus-T can all use a super effective Knock Off against specially defensive Pajantom, which heavily damages it, and removes Leftovers, its only form of recovery. While Pajantom can scout for Knock Off using Protect, it's forced to switch out.

Credits bud
Think it looks good otherwise. QC 3/3
 
GP 1/2
[OVERVIEW]

Pajantom's niche lies in its access to Spirit Shackle, which allows it to trap opposing Pokemon and prevent double switches. Its Speed tier ensures that it can outspeed Mega Medicham and Choice Specs Volkraken if invested, and most defensive Pokemon in the metagame if it opts to run its slower, bulkier set. Pajantom can trap and remove prominent these such defensive Pokemon, such as including Toxapex, Tomohawk, and Clefable, (comma) with a Z-Move without the fear of the target switching out. With its wide movepool, this set can essentially pick its checks and counters. Alternatively, a specially defensive variant is a good blanket trapper for most defensive Pokemon and checks powerful Fire-types like Volkraken and Heatran. Pajantom has a lot of defensive utility, as its many resistances and good bulk allow Pajantom it to tank weak moves from Pokemon like Tomohawk, Toxapex, Zapdos, and Gastrodon. Additionally, Comatose confers a status immunity to Pajantom, preventing it from being weakened by burn and worn down by toxic and burn damage, which helps against Lava Plume Heatran and Toxapex. However, Pajantom's greatest weakness is Pursuit trapping, making it hard to land get multiple KOes when the opposing team has a Weavile, Colossoil, or Tyranitar. Also, Pajantom has no recovery outside of Leftovers, so it can be worn down very fast without team support.

[SET]
name: Z-Crystal Trapper
move 1: Spirit Shackle
move 2: Earthquake / Ice Punch
move 3: Ice Punch / Outrage
move 4: Heal Block
item: Ghostium Z / Dragonium Z
ability: Comatose
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

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

Spirit Shackle prevents the opponent from switching out, allowing Trapping foes with Spirit Shackle allows Pajantom to fire off its Z-Move safely. Earthquake is a reliable move attack that 2HKOes Magearna and Krilowatt and OHKOes Mega Crucibelle and Heatran. Ice Punch chips down 2HKOes Landorus-T and bulky Jumbao, (comma) 2HKOing them after some chip damage, (comma) as well as almost OHKOing Zygarde and 2HKOing Colossoil. If Pajantom runs Dragonium Z, Outrage should replace one of Earthquake or Ice Punch. Iron Tail, (comma) in combination with Steelium Z, over Earthquake or Ice Punch with Steelium Z is a more specific option to remove Clefable and Jumbao, as they are nearly OHKOed by Corkscrew Crash. If run, Iron Tail should replace one of Earthquake or Ice Punch. Heal Block denies the opposing Pokemon's recovery, making it significantly easier to wear down and KO.

Set Details
========

A Jolly nature is preferred to outspeed Tapu Lele, 3 attacks Zapdos, and Mega Medicham. Ghostium Z is Pajantom's best option for wearing down opposing Steel-types, as Never-Ending Nightmare deals over half of Celesteela and Ferrothorn's HP. Also, Pajantom can use this Z-Move to overcome bulky Fairy-types like Clefable and Jumbao in combination with Heal Block pressure. When running Dragonium Z, Devastating Drake Dragonium Z instead removes weakened most defensive Pokemon like Toxapex, Zapdos, and Tomohawk, (comma) as well as OHKOing Colossoil on the switch-in. If running Iron Tail, Steelium Z should be run.

Usage Tips
========

Early-game, it’s best to spam Spirit Shackle, wearing down the opposing team and giving Pajantom’s teammates safer switches by preventing double switches. In doing so, you can read what the opponent’s answers to Pajantom are. Even though this set aims to trap more defensive switch-ins, offensive switch-ins generally have a harder time tanking hits from Pajantom. This means defensive switch-ins answers are more likely to switch in, despite the looming threat of the trap, allowing Pajantom to wear them down or perform a double switch. Using Heal Block after the opponent is trapped makes it easier for Pajantom to wear down Pokemon down into Z-Move KO range. Preventing Ferrothorn, Pyroak, and Celesteela from having their Leech Seed recovery is essential. Once the defensive check have been sufficiently worn down, use Pajantom’s Z-Move to eliminate a trapped threat it for a sweeping teammate. Although it may seem tempting to eliminate the trapped Pokemon prematurely be tempting to use the Z-Move immediately for damage, the set fails to do its job if the wall is able to heal off the damage from the Z-Move. (per) Take the necessary measures, such as using Heal Block or performing the trap later in the game when the wall is more weakened, (comma) to ensure Pajantom successfully removes the defensive Pokemon. Even if the team doesn't have a defined defensive backbone, Pajantom is able to disrupt offensive momentum with Spirit Shackle and use its coverage and Z-Move on switch-ins. Pay particular attention in particular to opposing Pursuit users. If the opponent has one, it's important not to let Pajantom give these Pokemon a free switch in. If Pajantom gets a KO, it leaves itself vulnerable to the Pursuit user. Slower Pursuit trappers like Colossoil, Malaconda, and Tyranitar can be removed with Devastating Drake;, (comma) though Colossoil and Malaconda commonly run Sucker Punch. A healthy Weavile can switch into and survive Earthquake, Ice Punch, (comma) or Spirit Shackle, so switching out as it comes in is generally a better play. It is important to identify whether or not Pajantom is still needed after removing the defensive Pokemon; if it is, preserve it and remove the Pursuit trapper before making any kills moves with it.

Team Options
=======

Choice Scarf Magnezone is one of the best teammates for Pajantom, as Pajantom lures and prevents opposing Steel-types from switching out, which Magnezone can then trap and beat. Magnezone can also take out troublesome Fairy-types like Clefable or and Jumbao for Pajantom. In return, Pajantom can trap and kill bulky Pokemon that wouldn’t don't care about Magnezone, including Pyroak or and Zapdos. Heatran is another option for a double trapping core, as its Magma Storm also limits the opposing team's options. As a bonus, Heatran takes care of Steel- and Fairy-types, allowing Pajantom to run Dragonium Z and Ice Punch more easily. In return, Pajantom can remove Pokemon like Arghonaut and Trace Jumbao for Heatran. Sweepers appreciate Pajantom’s support; however, the sweeper cannot also rely on a Z Crystal. Life Orb Aurumoth appreciates Ghostium Z Pajantom removing Celesteela, setup Zygarde likes Tangrowth and Jumbao out of the way, Swords Dance Mega Pinsir sweeps better with Cyclohm and Zapdos removed, and Double Dance Magearna functions better with Toxapex fainted. Offensive hazard setters like Greninja, Syclant, Landorus-T, and Mega Crucibelle can set Spikes or Stealth Rock for Pajantom, wearing down defensive Pokemon into Z-Move KO range faster. In return, Pajantom can remove the defensive Pokemon that wall these offensive setters. Defog Tornadus-T, Landorus-T, and Tapu Koko can Defog away clear hazards, preventing Pajantom from being worn down over the match. Teammates that can deal with Pursuit trappers like Colossoil, Tyranitar, and Weavile prevent Pajantom from being trapped itself. Examples include Tomohawk, Jumbao, and Mega Scizor.

[SET]
name: Specially Defensive Trapper
move 1: Spirit Shackle
move 2: Toxic
move 3: Protect
move 4: Heal Block
item: Leftovers
ability: Comatose
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

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

Spirit Shackle traps and weakens defensive Pokemon and chips them down. Notably, the chip damage against Toxapex is enough to remove it efficeintly. Even without Attack investment, Spirit Shackle still OHKOes Tapu Lele and Mega Medicham-Mega, allowing Pajantom to OHKO them on the switch-in. Protect allows Pajantom to scout for Knock Off users, gain an extra turn of Leftovers recovery, and rack up Toxic damage. Heal Block denies a trapped Pokemon from recovering, forcing Pokemon like Tomohawk to submit to Toxic damage and Spirit Shackle chip damage.

Set Details
========

Comatose prevents Pajantom from being worn down by Toxapex's Toxic, Heatran's Lava Plume, and Chansey's Toxic, saving valuable HP. Leftovers is Pajantom’s only source of recovery, which allows it to heal off damage as Toxic damage racks up on the opponent.

Usage Tips
========

Bulky Pajantom focuses on whittling down usual switch-ins with Toxic and denying their recovery, rather than overloading a Pokemon with damage. Spirit Shackle should be used against Pokemon who that can’t do much damage to Pajantom switching in. It might be better to use Toxic on a predicted switch-(hyph)in like Greninja, who which doesn’t care about the Spirit Shackle damage. Using Protect against potential Knock Off users like Toxapex, Arghonaut, Tornadus-T, and Mew ensures Pajantom won’t lose its Leftovers. If it does have Knock Off is revealed, Pajantom cannot stay in safely. Also, it Protect can scout against Choice item users like Tapu Lele, Syclant, and Ash-Greninja, making it them easier to switch to an appropriate teammate or stay in against the resisted move play around. Once trapped, Use Toxic to wear down trapped switch-ins, (comma) such as Tomohawk and Zapdos, following up with Heal Block to prevent recovery and Protect to stall for damage and heal with Leftovers. Against Pokemon immune to Toxic like Toxapex, use Heal Block and repeated Spirit Shackles to remove them. Pajantom can switch into defensive Tomohawk or Fidgit to spinblock or soak up a weak attack. However, offensive Tomohawk's Hurricane heavily compromises Pajantom’s ability to switch in later. Using Heal Block against a weakened Clefable or Jumbao might seem risky, but if they it chooses a recovery move, they it wastes the turn and leaves itself themselves vulnerable to Pajantom's teammates.

Team Options
========

Pajantom naturally lures in Steel-types like Celesteela, Mega Scizor, and Ferrothorn, so it appreciates partners who beat Steel-types that beat them. By having teammates that defeat Steel-types efficiently, Pajantom can more easily trap and wear down the opposing team with Toxic. Magnezone pairs well as a dual trapping core, ensuring that Ferrothorn and Celesteela are eliminated, (comma) and that Mega Scizor must keep using U-turn rather than Defog. Strong Fire-types nukes like Volkraken, Mega Charizard X, and Heatran and Ground-types like Colossoil, Landorus-T, and Zygarde generally have a positive match-up matchup against these Steel-types as well. Pajantom also lures in Fairy-types like Clefable and Jumbao, so good switch-ins that can capitalize on trapped Fairy-types are excellent partners. Mega Crucibelle is an excellent switch-in, tanking Moonblast with its naturally high Special Defense, forcing a switch with Gunk Shot, and gaining momentum with U-turn. Heatran functions the same way, using the free turn for trapping a following switch-in or setting Stealth Rock. Double Dance Magearna gain gets a free turn to use Shift Gear and begin its sweep. Celesteela forms a strong defensive core with Pajantom, as Pajantom can deal with strong Fire-types, (comma) and Celesteela has a good matchup against Fairy- and Steel-types and can apply more residual damage with Leech Seed. Pajantom’s largest weakness is easily Pursuit trapping, forcing which forces it to perform double switches while a Pursuit trapper is healthy. Therefore, Pokemon with a positive matchup against Colossoil, Tyranitar, and Weavile are mandatory teammates. Mega Sczior, Tomohawk, Jumbao, Clefable, and Tapu Bulu deal with some or all of these Pokemon effectively and provide other utility that Pajantom appreciates. Wish users like Clefable and Jumbao ensure that Pajantom stays healthy, meaning that it has give Pajantom recovery outside of Leftovers. Stealth Rock setters such as Heatran, Landorus-T, and Clefable and Spikes setters like Arghonaut and Greninja help Pajantom wear down the opposing team faster. Toxic Spikes setters like Toxapex allow Pajantom not to have to spend as many turns using Toxic. Although Pajantom appreciates hazard removal, it vastly prefers teammates with Rapid Spin so that opposing hazards can stay up. Tomohawk and Colossoil both work well in this regard. However, Defog users like Landorus-T and Tornadus-T also work. Since Pajantom excels at wearing down or removing essential members of opposing balance cores, wallbreakers like Ash-Greninja and Mega Pinsir and sweepers like Shift Gear Magearna and Dragon Dance Zygarde make for good teammates.

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

Pajantom can set Toxic Spikes and trap opposing Poison-types who that switch in to absorb them, providing multiple layers of team support. Additionally, Pajantom isn't a Poison-type, (comma) unlike most Toxic Spikes setters, which can be favorable for other Poison-type teammates like Mega Crucibelle, who which don't want to stack weaknesses.

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

**Pursuit Users**: Colossoil, Tyranitar, and Weavile force Pajantom to play very carefully. Although they might not have the easiest time switching into offensive sets, the specially defensive set can't do much to them aside from chipping them with a resisted Spirit Shackle or landing a Toxic. Colossoil can use Sucker Punch to make the match(space)up even more dicey, while Weavile natural outspeeds and threatens Pajantom with Icicle Crash as well. Malaconda is a niche Pursuit user that can tackle specially defensive sets with relative ease but can and annoy offensive variants with Sucker Punch.

**Faster Pokemon**: Many Pokemon can come in on Pajantom and threaten it by simply by outspeeding. Greninja, Syclant, and Krilowatt all threaten with Ice Beam, while Mega Crucibelle, Mega Latios, and Tapu Koko threaten with STAB Head Smash, Draco Meteor, and or Dazzling Gleam, respectively. Choice Scarfers users like Jumbao and Tapu Lele also threaten Pajantom with STAB Moonblast. However, they have a hard time switching in directly.

**Steel-types**: Mega Scizor is Pajantom's hardest sturdiest counter, as it can tank any of Pajantom's moves with ease, Roost off heal the damage, and threaten Pajantom out with a Bullet Punch or Knock Off. Ferrothorn and Celesteela can tank Spirit Shackle quite well and heal off the damage with Leech Seed, but Ghostium Z sets can power through these two them. Additionally, these Steel-types have to watch out for Heal Block.

**Bulky Fairy-types**: Clefable and Jumbao can tank Pajantom's Spirit Shackle with ease, wear it down with Moonblast, and heal off the damage with Softboiled or Shore Up. Additionally, Clefable ignores Toxic damage. However, they must play carefully around Heal Block, Never-Ending Nightmare, and Corkscrew Crash.

**Knock Off**: Arghonaut, Toxapex, Kartana, and Tornadus-T can all use a super effective Knock Off against specially defensive Pajantom, which heavily damages it, (comma) and removes Leftovers, its only form of recovery. While Pajantom can scout for Knock Off using Protect, it's still forced to switch out.
 

Lumari

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TFP Leader
remove add / fix (comments); (AC=add comma; RC+remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 2/2
[OVERVIEW]

Pajantom's niche lies in its access to Spirit Shackle, which allows it to trap opposing Pokemon and prevent double switches. Its Speed tier ensures that it can outspeed Mega Medicham and Choice Specs Volkraken if invested, and as well as most defensive Pokemon if it opts to run its slower, bulkier set. Pajantom can trap and remove such defensive Pokemon, including Toxapex, Tomohawk, and Clefable, and remove them with a Z-Move without fear of the target switching out. With its wide movepool, this set can essentially pick its checks and counters. Alternatively, a specially defensive variant is a good blanket trapper for most defensive Pokemon and checks check to powerful Fire-types like Volkraken and Heatran. Pajantom has a lot of defensive utility, as its many resistances and good bulk allow it to tank weak moves from Pokemon like Tomohawk, Toxapex, Zapdos, and Gastrodon. Additionally, Comatose confers a status immunity to Pajantom, which helps against Lava Plume Heatran and Toxapex. Pajantom's greatest weakness is to Pursuit trapping, making it hard to get multiple KOs when the opposing team has a Weavile, Colossoil, or Mega Tyranitar. Also, Pajantom has no recovery outside of Leftovers, so it can be worn down very fast without team support.

[SET]
name: Z-Crystal Trapper
move 1: Spirit Shackle
move 2: Earthquake / Ice Punch
move 3: Ice Punch / Outrage
move 4: Heal Block
item: Ghostium Z / Dragonium Z
ability: Comatose
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

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

Trapping foes with Spirit Shackle allows Pajantom to fire off its Z-Move safely. Earthquake is a reliable attack that 2HKOes Magearna and Krilowatt and OHKOes Mega Crucibelle and Heatran. Ice Punch 2HKOes Landorus-T and bulky Jumbao after some chip damage as well as almost OHKOing Zygarde and 2HKOing Colossoil. If Pajantom runs Dragonium Z, Outrage should replace Earthquake or Ice Punch. Iron Tail over Earthquake or Ice Punch with Steelium Z is a more specific option to remove Clefable and Jumbao, as they are nearly OHKOed by Corkscrew Crash. Heal Block denies the opposing Pokemon's recovery, making it significantly easier to wear down and KO.

Set Details
========

A Jolly nature is preferred to outspeed Tapu Lele, 3 attacks Zapdos, and Mega Medicham. Ghostium Z is Pajantom's best option for wearing down Steel-types, as Never-Ending Nightmare deals over half of Celesteela and Ferrothorn's HP. Also, Pajantom can use this Z-Move to overcome bulky Fairy-types like Clefable and Jumbao in combination with Heal Block pressure. Dragonium Z instead removes most defensive Pokemon like Toxapex, Zapdos, and Tomohawk as well as OHKOing Colossoil on the switch. If running Iron Tail, Steelium Z should be run.

Usage Tips
========

Early-game, it’s it's (slanted apostrophe) best to spam Spirit Shackle, wearing down the opposing team and giving Pajantom’s Pajantom's teammates safer switches by preventing double switches. In doing so, you can read what the opponent’s opponent's answers to Pajantom are. Even though this set aims to trap more defensive switch-ins, offensive switch-ins generally have a harder time tanking hits from Pajantom. This means defensive answers are more likely to switch in, despite the looming threat of the trap, allowing Pajantom to wear them down or perform a double switch. Using Heal Block after the opponent is trapped makes it easier for Pajantom to wear Pokemon down into Z-Move KO range. Preventing Ferrothorn, Pyroak, and Celesteela from having their Leech Seed recovery is essential. Once the defensive check have has been sufficiently worn down, use Pajantom’s Pajantom's Z-Move to eliminate it for a sweeping teammate. Although it may be tempting to use the Z-Move immediately for damage, the set fails to do its job if the wall is able to heal the damage from the Z-Move. Take the necessary measures, such as using Heal Block or performing the trap later in the game when the wall is more weakened, to ensure Pajantom successfully removes the defensive Pokemon. Even if the team doesn't have a defined defensive backbone, Pajantom is able to disrupt offensive momentum with Spirit Shackle and use its coverage and Z-Move on switch-ins. Pay particular attention to Pursuit users. If the opponent has one, it's important not to let Pajantom give these Pokemon a free switch in. If Pajantom gets a KO, it leaves itself vulnerable to the Pursuit user. Slower Pursuit trappers like Colossoil, Malaconda, and Tyranitar can be removed with Devastating Drake, though Colossoil and Malaconda commonly run Sucker Punch. A healthy Weavile can switch into and survive Earthquake, Ice Punch, or Spirit Shackle, so switching out as it comes in is generally a better play. It is important to identify whether or not Pajantom is still needed after removing the defensive Pokemon; if it is, preserve it and remove the Pursuit trapper before making any KOs with it.

Team Options
=======

Choice Scarf Magnezone is one of the best teammates for Pajantom, as Pajantom lures and prevents Steel-types from switching out, which Magnezone can then trap and beat. Magnezone can also take out troublesome Fairy-types like Clefable and Jumbao for Pajantom. In return, Pajantom can trap bulky Pokemon that don't care about Magnezone, including Pyroak and Zapdos. Heatran is another option for a double trapping core, as its Magma Storm also limits the opposing team's options. As a bonus, Heatran takes care of Steel- and Fairy-types, allowing Pajantom to run Dragonium Z and Ice Punch more easily. In return, Pajantom can remove Pokemon like Arghonaut and Trace Jumbao for Heatran. Sweepers appreciate Pajantom’s Pajantom's support; however, the sweeper cannot also rely on a Z-Crystal. (AH) Life Orb Aurumoth appreciates Ghostium Z Pajantom removing Celesteela, setup Zygarde likes Tangrowth and Jumbao out of the way, Swords Dance Mega Pinsir sweeps better with Cyclohm and Zapdos removed, and Double Dance Magearna functions better with Toxapex fainted. Offensive hazard Spikes and Stealth Rock setters like Greninja, Syclant, Landorus-T, and Mega Crucibelle can set Spikes or Stealth Rock for Pajantom, wearing help wear down defensive Pokemon into Z-Move KO range faster. In return, Pajantom can remove the defensive Pokemon that wall these offensive setters. Defog Tornadus-T, Landorus-T, and Tapu Koko can clear hazards, preventing Pajantom from being worn down over the match. Teammates that can deal with Pursuit trappers like Colossoil, Tyranitar, and Weavile prevent Pajantom from being trapped itself. Examples include Tomohawk, Jumbao, and Mega Scizor.

[SET]
name: Specially Defensive Trapper
move 1: Spirit Shackle
move 2: Toxic
move 3: Protect
move 4: Heal Block
item: Leftovers
ability: Comatose
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

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

Spirit Shackle traps and weakens defensive Pokemon. Notably, the chip damage against Toxapex is enough to remove it efficeintly efficiently. Even without Attack investment, Spirit Shackle still OHKOes Tapu Lele and Mega Medicham, allowing Pajantom to OHKO them on the switch. Protect allows Pajantom to scout for Knock Off users, gain an extra turn of Leftovers recovery, and rack up Toxic damage. Heal Block denies a trapped Pokemon from recovering, forcing Pokemon like Tomohawk to submit to Toxic and Spirit Shackle damage.

Set Details
========

Comatose prevents Pajantom from being worn down by Toxapex's Toxic, Heatran's Lava Plume, and Chansey's Toxic, saving valuable HP. Leftovers is Pajantom’s only source of recovery, which allows it to heal as Toxic damage racks up on the opponent opposing Pokemon.

Usage Tips
========

Bulky Pajantom focuses on whittling down usual switch-ins with Toxic and denying their recovery, rather than overloading a Pokemon with damage. Spirit Shackle should be used against Pokemon that can’t can't do much damage to Pajantom switching in. It might be better to use Toxic on a predicted switch-in like Greninja, which doesn’t care about Spirit Shackle damage. Using Protect against potential Knock Off users like Toxapex, Arghonaut, Tornadus-T, and Mew ensures Pajantom won’t won't lose its Leftovers. If Knock Off is revealed, Pajantom cannot stay in safely. Also, Protect can scout against Choice item users like Tapu Lele, Syclant, and Ash-Greninja, making them easier to play around. Use Toxic to wear down trapped switch-ins such as Tomohawk and Zapdos, following up with Heal Block to prevent recovery and Protect to stall for damage and heal with Leftovers. Against Pokemon immune to Toxic like Toxapex, use Heal Block and repeated Spirit Shackle to remove them. Pajantom can switch into defensive Tomohawk or Fidgit to spinblock or soak up a weak attack. However, offensive Tomohawk's Hurricane heavily compromises Pajantom’s ability to switch in later. Using Heal Block against a weakened Clefable or Jumbao might seem risky, but if it chooses a recovery move, it wastes the turn and leave itself vulnerable to Pajantom's teammates.

Team Options
========

Pajantom naturally lures in Steel-types like Celesteela, Mega Scizor, and Ferrothorn, so it appreciates partners that beat them. By having teammates that defeat Steel-types efficiently, Pajantom can more easily trap and wear down the opposing team with Toxic. Magnezone pairs well as a dual trapping core, ensuring that Ferrothorn and Celesteela are eliminated and that Mega Scizor must U-turn rather than Defog. Strong Fire-types like Volkraken, Mega Charizard X, and Heatran and Ground-types like Colossoil, Landorus-T, and Zygarde generally have a positive matchup against these Steel-types as well. Pajantom also lures in Fairy-types like Clefable and Jumbao, so good switch-ins that can capitalize on trapped Fairy-types are excellent partners. Mega Crucibelle is an excellent switch-in, tanking Moonblast with its naturally high Special Defense, forcing a switch with Gunk Shot, and gaining momentum with U-turn. Heatran functions the same way, using the free turn for trapping a following switch-in or setting Stealth Rock. Double Dance Magearna gets a free turn to use Shift Gear and begin its sweep. Celesteela forms a strong defensive core with Pajantom, as Pajantom can deal with strong Fire-types and Celesteela has a good matchup against Fairy- and Steel-types and can apply more residual damage with Leech Seed. Pajantom’s Pajantom's largest weakness is easily Pursuit trapping, which forces it to perform double switches while a Pursuit trapper is healthy. Therefore, Pokemon with a positive matchup against Colossoil, Tyranitar, and Weavile are mandatory teammates. Mega Sczior, Tomohawk, Jumbao, Clefable, and Tapu Bulu deal with some or all of these Pokemon effectively and provide other utility that Pajantom appreciates. Wish users like Clefable and Jumbao give Pajantom recovery outside of Leftovers. Stealth Rock setters such as Heatran, Landorus-T, and Clefable and Spikes setters like Arghonaut and Greninja help Pajantom wear down the opposing team faster. Toxic Spikes setters like Toxapex allow Pajantom not to have to spend as many turns using Toxic. Although Pajantom appreciates entry hazard removal, it vastly prefers teammates with Rapid Spin so that opposing hazards can stay up. Tomohawk and Colossoil both work well in this regard. However, Defog users like Landorus-T and Tornadus-T also work. Since Pajantom excels at wearing down or removing essential members of balance cores, wallbreakers like Ash-Greninja and Mega Pinsir and sweepers like Shift Gear Magearna and Dragon Dance Zygarde make for good teammates.

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

Pajantom can set Toxic Spikes and trap Poison-types that switch in to absorb them, providing multiple layers of team support. Additionally, Pajantom isn't a Poison-type like most Toxic Spikes setters, which can be favorable for Poison-type teammates like Mega Crucibelle, which don't want to stack weaknesses.

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

**Pursuit Users**: Weavile, Mega Tyranitar, and Colossoil force Pajantom to play very carefully. Although they might not have the easiest time switching into offensive sets, the specially defensive set can't do much to them aside from chipping them with resisted Spirit Shackle or landing Toxic. Colossoil can use Sucker Punch to make the matchup even more dicey, while Weavile natural outspeeds and threatens Pajantom with Icicle Crash as well. Malaconda is a niche Pursuit user that can tackle specially defensive sets with relative ease and annoy offensive variants with Sucker Punch.

**Faster Pokemon**: Many Pokemon can come in on Pajantom and threaten it by simply by outspeeding. Greninja, Syclant, and Krilowatt threaten with Ice Beam, while Mega Crucibelle, Mega Latios, and Tapu Koko threaten with STAB Head Smash, Draco Meteor, or Dazzling Gleam. Choice Scarf users like Jumbao and Tapu Lele also threaten Pajantom with STAB Moonblast. However, they have a hard time switching in directly.

**Steel-types**: Mega Scizor is Pajantom's sturdiest counter, as it can tank any of Pajantom's moves with ease, heal the damage, and threaten Pajantom out with Bullet Punch or Knock Off. Ferrothorn and Celesteela can tank Spirit Shackle quite well and heal with Leech Seed, but Ghostium Z sets can power through them. Additionally, these Steel-types have to watch out for Heal Block.

**Bulky Fairy-types**: Clefable and Jumbao can tank Pajantom's Spirit Shackle with ease, wear it down with Moonblast, and heal with Softboiled Soft-Boiled or Shore Up. Additionally, Clefable ignores Toxic damage. However, they must play carefully around Heal Block, Never-Ending Nightmare, and Corkscrew Crash.

**Knock Off**: Arghonaut, Toxapex, Kartana, and Tornadus-T can use super effective Knock Off against specially defensive Pajantom, which heavily damages it and removes Leftovers, its only form of recovery. While Pajantom can scout for Knock Off using Protect, it's still forced to switch out.

- Written by: [[snake_rattler, 227784]]
- Quality checked by: [[LucarioOfLegends, 339349], [Jordy, 395754]]
- Grammar checked by: [[CryoGyro, 331519], [, ]]
 

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