Essential Moves For Scizor Pokemon Go To Maximize Performance

Scizor remains one of the most durable and versatile Bug-type Pokémon in Pokémon GO, especially after receiving a Mega Evolution that enhances its already solid stats. While its base form may not dominate top-tier PvP leagues like Master League, it shines in Great League, specific Raid encounters, and as a defensive powerhouse in Gyms. To unlock its full potential, trainers must carefully select its moveset—both Fast Moves and Charged Moves—to align with its typing, stat distribution, and intended role. The right combination can turn Scizor from a niche pick into a battlefield disruptor.

Understanding Scizor’s Role and Strengths

Scizor is a Steel/Bug-type Pokémon with high Defense and decent Attack, making it naturally inclined toward tanky offensive roles. Its resistances cover 10 types, including common attackers like Fairy, Grass, Ice, and Psychic. However, it is weak to Fire, Flying, Rock, and Electric moves—key considerations when deploying it in battle. Because of its type coverage and survivability, Scizor excels at countering popular Fairy-types such as Gardevoir, Togekiss, and Mr. Mime, which are prevalent in both Great League and Raid environments.

In PvE scenarios like Raids and Team GO Rocket battles, Scizor benefits from STAB (Same-Type Attack Bonus) on both Bug and Steel moves, increasing damage output by 20%. In PvP, particularly Great League, where CP limits constrain options, Scizor’s ability to run under 1500 CP while maintaining strong bulk gives it strategic value. Choosing optimal moves isn’t just about raw damage; it’s about energy generation, move timing, and matchup coverage.

Tip: Always prioritize moves that generate energy quickly against faster opponents, allowing Scizor to fire off key Charged Moves before being overwhelmed.

Best Fast Move: Fury Cutter vs. Metal Claw

The primary decision point for Scizor lies in selecting its Fast Move. Trainers have two viable options: Fury Cutter and Metal Claw. Each has distinct advantages depending on the context.

• Fury Cutter: This Bug-type Fast Move deals 3 damage per use but gains a hidden multiplier if used consecutively—up to 6x damage on the sixth hit. While this sounds powerful, the stacking mechanic rarely reaches maximum in fast-paced battles due to switches or interruptions. However, it excels in prolonged exchanges where Scizor can maintain pressure without being forced out.
• Metal Claw: A consistent Steel-type Fast Move dealing 7 damage per use with slightly higher energy generation than Fury Cutter. It doesn’t benefit from stacking, but its reliability makes it ideal for triggering Charged Moves faster, especially in time-sensitive PvP matches.

In most competitive settings, especially PvP, Metal Claw is preferred because it provides predictable damage and better energy efficiency. Fury Cutter sees niche use in PvE when fighting stationary targets like Bosses in Raid Battles, where uninterrupted attacks are possible.

Optimal Charged Move Combinations

Scizor’s strength comes from pairing high-damage Charged Moves with excellent type synergy. It can learn several Charged Moves through Elite TMs, but only three combinations stand out based on DPS (Damage Per Second), energy cost, and coverage.

Charged Move Combo	Type	DPS Output	Best Use Case
X-Scissor + Iron Head	Bug / Steel	High (with STAB)	PvP (Great League), Countering Fairies
Hyper Beam + Iron Head	Normal / Steel	Moderate, high risk/reward	Raids (vs. Dark, Normal types)
Smart Strike + Iron Head	Steel / Steel	Consistent, low energy cost	Gym Defense, Sustained Pressure

Among these, X-Scissor + Iron Head is widely considered the best all-around set. X-Scissor offers strong Bug STAB damage, effective against Grass, Dark, and Psychological types. Iron Head provides crucial Steel STAB and a chance to flinch opponents—an invaluable tool in PvP to disrupt charge timing.

While Hyper Beam delivers massive damage, its 75-energy cost and long cooldown make it risky. It’s best reserved for Raid teams where Scizor acts as a secondary nuker behind primary attackers. Smart Strike, though less flashy, offers perfect accuracy and minimal downtime, making it excellent for holding Gyms or surviving longer in rotation battles.

“Scizor’s real power lies in its ability to switch into common Fairy threats and retaliate with efficient STAB moves. Iron Head is non-negotiable in any serious build.” — Arjun Patel, Top 100 Great League Trainer

Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Ultimate Scizor

Follow this sequence to optimize your Scizor for peak performance:

1. Catch or evolve Scizor: Use a Metal Coat on Scyther to evolve it. Ensure the IVs are high—ideally 80% or above for PvP builds.
2. Check available moves: If your Scizor doesn’t have Metal Claw or Iron Head, plan to use an Elite TM to teach them.
3. Select Fast Move: Prioritize Metal Claw unless you’re using Scizor exclusively in PvE Raids with Fury Cutter.
4. Choose Charged Moves: Aim for X-Scissor and Iron Head. Avoid redundant or low-DPS options like Aerial Ace unless no alternatives exist.
5. Power up strategically: In Great League, cap CP at 1498. Focus on maximizing HP and Defense rather than pure Attack if balancing survivability.
6. Test in Battle: Deploy in Practice Battles or Low-Stakes PvP to assess energy cycle and flinch consistency.
7. Adjust as needed: If struggling against fast chargers, consider Smart Strike for quicker retaliation.

Tip: Pair Scizor with a partner that absorbs Fire or Electric hits (like a Water-type) to mitigate its weaknesses during tag-team Raids.

Real-World Example: Scizor in a Great League Clash

During a regional tournament qualifier, trainer Lena M. used a Level 25 Scizor (IVs: 14/13/15) running Metal Claw, X-Scissor, and Iron Head. Facing a common Gardevoir lead, she switched in after her initial attacker fell to Shadow Ball. Using Metal Claw to chip away at Gardevoir’s health, she generated energy quickly. On her second Charged Move window, she fired Iron Head, triggering a flinch that delayed Gardevoir’s second Dazzling Gleam. She followed with X-Scissor to finish it off. The flinch proved decisive—without it, Gardevoir would have KO’d her Scizor first. This single interaction secured her the round win.

This scenario illustrates how proper move selection—especially the inclusion of Iron Head—not only deals damage but also creates tactical advantages beyond raw numbers.

Checklist: Optimizing Your Scizor Build

• ✅ Evolve Scyther using a Metal Coat
• ✅ Target high-IV specimen (13+ in all stats preferred)
• ✅ Fast Move: Metal Claw (PvP), Fury Cutter (Raids)
• ✅ Primary Charged Move: Iron Head (mandatory for flinch)
• ✅ Secondary Charged Move: X-Scissor (best balance of speed and power)
• ✅ Alternative Charged Move: Smart Strike (for gym durability)
• ✅ Maximize CP within league limit (e.g., 1498 for Great League)
• ✅ Test move timing and synergy in friendly battles

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Scizor compete in Ultra or Master League?

No, Scizor’s max CP is too low for Ultra or Master League viability. Its true strength lies in Great League and certain PvE contexts. For higher leagues, consider alternatives like Metagross or Excadrill.

Is Fury Cutter ever better than Metal Claw?

Rarely in PvP. Fury Cutter’s damage scaling requires uninterrupted usage, which is uncommon in dynamic battles. However, in Raid settings where Scizor can attack continuously without interruption, Fury Cutter can outperform Metal Claw over time—especially against slower bosses.

Why is Iron Head so important on Scizor?

Iron Head provides STAB Steel-type damage and has a 30% chance to flinch the opponent, disrupting their charge cycle. This small effect often shifts momentum in close PvP matches, making it one of the most impactful Charged Moves in the game for control purposes.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Scizor may not be the flashiest Pokémon in Pokémon GO, but with the right moveset, it becomes a calculated threat capable of turning the tide in critical moments. Whether shutting down Fairy-types in Great League, holding a Gym with relentless pressure, or contributing in Raid rotations, its effectiveness hinges on smart move selection. By prioritizing Metal Claw, X-Scissor, and Iron Head, you equip Scizor to fulfill its role with precision and resilience.

💬 Have a Scizor story or unique build? Share your experience in the comments and help fellow trainers refine their strategies!