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Staraptor (Choice Scarf)

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Ray Jay

"Jump first, ask questions later, oui oui!"
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http://www.smogon.com/dp/pokemon/staraptor
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[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Return / Double Edge
move 3: Close Combat
move 4: Pursuit / U-turn
item: Choice Scarf
nature: Adamant
evs: 4 HP/ 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p> While Staraptor's base speed is appreciable, it still loses to prevalent base 110's, as well as other important Pokemon in the metagame. However, by pairing its great attack with a choice scarf, you can effectively revenge kill weakened Pokemon. </p>

<p> Brave Bird is the weapon of choice here, OHKOing standard Gengar (assuming it does not have its own Choice Scarf). It also allows you to revenge kill Life Orb Gyarados, who, after Stealth Rock and one Life Orb recoil, will be OHKOd by Brave Bird as well. While Double Edge is generally better for Choice Band sets, Return will be the smarter option here, as you will already be taking damage from Stealth Rock and Brave Bird recoil, and you can expect to be switching in a lot as you are revenge killing. Close Combat allows for more damage on steel types, and the defense drop isn't especially harmful as Staraptor is very frail anyways. The choice between Pursuit and U-Turn is simple: if you'd prefer more damage on bulky ghosts, choose Pursuit, if you'd rather scout with Staraptor, go with U-Turn. </p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p> The EVs aren't incredibly complex here, max Speed and Attack are a necessity. It is important to note that with Choice Scarf, you do not have the benefits of added Attack, so you should be careful to know what you can kill, and what you can't. For this reason, don't be afraid to switch out more than you normally would. </p>

<p> Stealth Rock is very important to helping this set, especially since you are losing a lot of power without a Choice Band. For this reason, a lead Hippowdon works well, as it can absorb Electric attacks aimed at Staraptor and function as a great wall even until late-game. </p>

<p> Offensive Gliscor gets special mention, as it can come in on a Choiced-electric user (such as Jolteon) and set up a free Swords Dance on the switch. You must be wary, however, of both of these Pokemon's weakness to Ice. Jolteon also is a good teammate, as it can turn Thunderbolts into health. </p>
 
This exact set is on-site, but with slightly more bulk and less speed. Unless you're running Jolly, you don't really need max Speed, so if the set stays Adamant, then investing in some bulk might be beneficial. Unless you're planning on replacing the one on-site, this is a no from me. And if you're planning to replace the one on-site, then this analysis needs a lot of work, because currently the one on-site is superior.
 
Ok, you're pretty much free to ignore this from me. When I started writing it, there was not one on the site. I am sorry to bother you.
 
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