Pokemon That Evolve With Metal Coat And How To Trigger Evolution

The Metal Coat is one of the most iconic evolution items introduced in the second generation of the Pokemon franchise. Beyond boosting the power of Steel-type moves in battle, this specialized item acts as the catalyst for transforming specific classic creatures into formidable Steel-type powerhouses. Understanding which creatures require this item and how to initiate their transformations ensures trainers can optimize their battle rosters efficiently.

Which Pokemon Require a Metal Coat to Evolve?

Only two specific species in the main Pokemon series utilize the Metal Coat to achieve their final evolutionary forms. The Rock-type snake Pokemon Onix uses it to transform into the towering Steel and Ground-type Steelix. Similarly, the Bug and Flying-type Scyther relies on the item to evolve into the red armored Bug and Steel-type Scizor.

Both of these evolutions represent significant statistical upgrades and typing changes that alter their roles in battle. While Onix gains immense physical defense upon becoming Steelix, Scyther trades speed for enhanced defensive durability and offensive threat as Scizor. Acquiring a Metal Coat is therefore essential for players wanting to leverage these strategic Steel-type additions.

How to Trigger Metal Coat Evolution in Mainline Games

In traditional mainline core games, triggering the evolution process requires a trade mechanic between two players. You must first equip your Onix or Scyther with the Metal Coat as its held item before initiating the trade session. Once the trade completes, the receiving trainer will witness the evolution animation trigger automatically.

In modern titles like Pokemon Legends Arceus, trade mechanics are no longer strictly mandatory to evolve held-item Pokemon. Players can directly apply the Metal Coat like an evolution stone from their inventory onto Onix or Scyther to instantly trigger the transformation. Alternatively, using a Link Cable item alongside the Metal Coat allows solo players to achieve these evolutions smoothly.

Evolving Onix and Scyther in Pokemon GO

The mobile spin-off title Pokemon GO adapts the Metal Coat mechanic into a consumable evolution requirement rather than a held item. To evolve Onix into Steelix, players need 50 Onix Candies in addition to a single Metal Coat item. Evolving Scyther into Scizor follows the exact same formula, requiring 50 Scyther Candies alongside the item.

Trainers can collect Metal Coats in Pokemon GO by spinning Photo Discs at PokeStops and Gyms, particularly when maintaining a seven-day streak. Field research tasks and special event rewards occasionally grant these rare evolutionary items as well. Once you have accumulated the necessary candies and item, simply tap the evolve button on the Pokemon detail screen.

Strategic Value of Steelix and Scizor in Battle

Evolving your Pokemon with a Metal Coat delivers substantial competitive advantages across both casual campaigns and player-versus-player battles. Steelix provides incredible physical defense alongside immunity to Electric and Poison attacks, making it a reliable defensive pivot. Its diverse movepool allows it to set entry hazards like Stealth Rock while threatening opponents with heavy Ground moves.

Scizor remains one of the most popular competitive choices due to its fantastic Bug and Steel typing, which leaves it with only a single weakness to Fire. Possessing the Technician ability boosts its priority move Bullet Punch into a terrifying offensive weapon. Investing the time to obtain a Metal Coat pays off tremendously when deploying these durable combatants in any team lineup.