In Pokémon Go, evolving certain Pokémon requires more than just candy—you’ll also need special evolution items. One of the most sought-after items is the Metal Coat, which is essential for transforming Onix into Steelix and Scyther into Scizor. However, this item can be elusive and hard to come by. Here’s everything you need to know about how to obtain a Metal Coat and how to use it effectively to evolve your Pokémon.
Methods for Obtaining a Metal Coat
1. Spinning PokéStops and Gyms
One of the primary methods to obtain a Metal Coat is by spinning PokéStops or Gyms. Each time you spin a stop, there’s a small chance (approximately 1%) that you’ll receive a random evolution item, which could include the Metal Coat. Because the odds are quite low, you’ll need to spin a lot of PokéStops to increase your chances. The process requires persistence, and although you won’t get a Metal Coat on every spin, regular play will eventually yield one.
2. Seven-Day PokéStop Streak
To guarantee that you’ll receive an evolution item, you should aim to complete a seven-day PokéStop streak. This means spinning a PokéStop or Gym each day for seven consecutive days. On the seventh day, you’re guaranteed to receive an evolution item. However, it won’t always be a Metal Coat—so luck still plays a role. Nonetheless, this method offers a more consistent way to get evolution items than random PokéStop spins.
3. Field Research Tasks
Field research tasks are also a great way to acquire a Metal Coat. Sometimes, completing specific tasks will reward you with this item. The tasks that offer evolution items tend to change over time, often aligning with special events, so be sure to stay updated on current research tasks by checking the binocular icon in the game’s menu. If you come across tasks that reward evolution items, prioritize those to increase your chances of getting a Metal Coat.
4. Special and Timed Research Events
During certain special or timed research events, the rewards for completing tasks may include Metal Coats. These events are usually tied to specific in-game events or challenges, so participating during these limited-time windows can give you a better shot at receiving this rare item. Keep an eye on game announcements or community discussions to stay informed about upcoming events that may feature Metal Coats as rewards.
5. Gifts from Friends
Another potential, though less reliable, way to get a Metal Coat is through gifts from friends. Each gift has a chance of containing an evolution item, including the Metal Coat. However, this method is entirely based on chance and can be inconsistent. To increase your chances, make sure to open as many gifts as possible, and keep a healthy rotation of active friends who are regularly sending you gifts.
6. Pokémon Go Battle League
Occasionally, participating in battles in the Pokémon Go Battle League can yield rewards that include evolution items. Winning battles might earn you a Metal Coat, though the drop rate for evolution items from battle rewards is low. However, for those who enjoy battling, this offers another potential way to obtain this elusive item.
How to Use the Metal Coat in Pokémon Go
Once you’ve obtained a Metal Coat, you can use it to evolve two specific Pokémon: Onix and Scyther. Here’s how to use it:
- Evolving Onix into Steelix
- You’ll need one Metal Coat and 50 Onix candies to evolve Onix into Steelix. To evolve Onix, go to your Pokémon menu, select Onix, and if you have the required items, the “Evolve” button will appear. After confirming the evolution, your Onix will transform into Steelix.
- Evolving Scyther into Scizor
- Similarly, to evolve Scyther into Scizor, you’ll need a Metal Coat and 50 Scyther candies. Navigate to your Pokémon menu, select Scyther, and provided you have the required items, the option to evolve will be available.
Both of these evolutions will significantly boost your Pokémon’s stats and give you access to powerful creatures that are useful in battles and raids.
Tips for Efficient Evolution Item Management
Due to the rarity of the Metal Coat, you may not have enough to evolve both Onix and Scyther right away. If you find yourself in this situation, consider which evolution will benefit you more based on your gameplay. Steelix is known for its strong defense, making it a great asset for defending gyms and enduring longer battles. On the other hand, Scizor is an offensive powerhouse with solid attack stats, making it an excellent choice for raids and PvP battles.
Additionally, if you have a shiny version of Onix or Scyther, you may want to prioritize evolving these special variants. Shiny Steelix and Scizor not only look unique but can also add a special touch to your collection.
