How to Get a Metal Coat in Pokémon GO: A Strategy Guide

Struggling to find that elusive Metal Coat in Pokémon GO? You're not alone. This special evolution item is the key to unlocking two of the most formidable Steel-type Pokémon in the game: the swift and deadly Scizor and the defensive titan Steelix. Unlike simply gathering candy, obtaining a Metal Coat requires a mix of strategy, consistency, and a little bit of luck.

This guide will break down every method available on how to get a Metal Coat in 2025, from the most reliable strategies to bonus opportunities. We'll give you a clear action plan to maximize your chances and help you decide which Pokémon to evolve once you finally get one.

Part 1. What is a Metal Coat and Why Do You Need One?

The Metal Coat is a special evolution item in Pokémon GO. Its sole purpose is to evolve two specific Pokémon when combined with the right amount of candy.

• Scyther evolves into Scizor (Bug/Steel) with 50 Scyther Candy and 1 Metal Coat.
• Onix evolves into Steelix (Steel/Ground) with 50 Onix Candy and 1 Metal Coat.

Both Scizor and Steelix are incredibly valuable assets. Scizor is a top-tier attacker in PvP leagues and a potent Bug-type for raids, while Steelix is a defensive powerhouse that can dominate in the Great and Ultra Leagues. Getting a Metal Coat isn't just about completing your Pokédex; it's about adding powerful new fighters to your roster.

Part 2. The Most Reliable Method: Your 7-Day PokéStop Streak

If you want a consistent chance at a Metal Coat, this is the method to focus on. You are guaranteed to receive one random evolution item for spinning your first PokéStop or Gym of the day for seven consecutive days. Here's how it works:

Step 1. Spin at least one PokéStop or Gym photo disc every single day.
Step 2. On the seventh consecutive day, you will receive a large bonus of XP and items.
Step 3. Included in this 7-day streak bonus will be one guaranteed evolution item.

It's crucial to understand that this is a guaranteed random evolution item. The Metal Coat is in the reward pool, but so are other items like the King's Rock, Sun Stone, Dragon Scale, Up-Grade, Sinnoh Stone, and Unova Stone. You might get a Metal Coat on your first try, or it might take a few weeks.

Despite the randomness, this is by far the most reliable way to farm for evolution items. Your primary goal should be to never miss your 7-day streak.

Part 3. All Other Ways to Find a Metal Coat in Pokémon GO

While the 7-day streak is your best bet, there are a few other ways you can get lucky and find a Metal Coat. Think of these as bonus opportunities rather than a primary strategy.

Way 1: Random Drops from PokéStops and Gyms

You can technically receive a Metal Coat from any spin at any PokéStop or Gym on any day. However, the probability is incredibly low. The drop rate for any evolution item from a standard spin is estimated to be around 1% or less.

While you shouldn't rely on this method, it's a nice surprise when it happens. The more you play and the more stops you spin, the more chances you have for a lucky drop.

Way 2: GO Battle League Rewards

For players who enjoy PvP, the GO Battle League (GBL) offers another potential source. When you complete a set of five battles, you receive rewards based on how many matches you won.

After winning two battles in a set, you will earn a "Mystery Item" reward. This pool of items can include anything from Charged TMs and Rare Candy to evolution items, including the Metal Coat. The odds are not high, but if you're already playing GBL, it's a fantastic passive way to increase your chances.

Way 3: Research Task Rewards

From time to time, Niantic will feature evolution items as guaranteed rewards in Special Research or event-exclusive Timed Research questlines.

For example, the "A Ripple in Time" Special Research (the questline for Celebi) has a step that rewards players with a guaranteed Metal Coat. If you haven't completed this research yet, it's a surefire way to get one.

Always keep an eye on the in-game news and current event details. If a new research line is announced, check the rewards to see if a Metal Coat is on the list.

Part 4. A Simple Strategy to Maximize Your Chances

Feeling overwhelmed? Don't be. Here is a simple, prioritized action plan to get your Metal Coat.

• Prioritize Your 7-Day Streak: This is non-negotiable. Make it a daily habit to spin at least one PokéStop. Set a reminder on your phone if you have to. This is your most important task.
• Play GO Battle League: If you enjoy PvP, complete your daily GBL sets. Aim for at least two wins per set to get a shot at the mystery item reward.
• Spin Everything: Whenever you're out playing, spin every PokéStop and Gym you pass. Don't expect a Metal Coat from this, but treat every lucky drop as a bonus.
• Complete Your Special Research: Check your list of active Special Research tasks. If you still have "A Ripple in Time" to complete, work on it for a guaranteed reward.
• Stay Informed: Read the in-game news for new events and research that might feature a Metal Coat as a reward.

Part 5. How to Evolve Scyther or Onix via Metal Coat

Congratulations! The hard part is over. Using your Metal Coat to evolve your Pokémon is simple.

Step 1. Check Your Candy and ensure you have at least 50 Scyther Candy or 50 Onix Candy.
Step 2. Find the Scyther or Onix you want to evolve.
Step 3. If you have the Metal Coat and the required candy, the standard "Evolve" button will be active. It will show the silhouette of the evolved Pokémon (Scizor or Steelix) and a small Metal Coat icon next to the candy cost.
Step 4. Tap the Evolve button and confirm your choice. Watch the evolution animation and enjoy your new Pokémon!

Part 6. Scizor vs. Steelix: Which Should You Evolve First?

So you have one Metal Coat and enough candy for both Scyther and Onix. Who gets the upgrade? The answer depends on your needs.

Evolve Scizor if you need a strong attacker. Scizor's Bug/Steel typing gives it an impressive nine resistances, making it durable in battle. It excels in the Great and Ultra PvP leagues with its fast-charging moves and is a top-tier Bug-type attacker for raids against Psychic and Dark-type bosses.

Evolve Steelix if you need a defensive wall. Steelix is all about bulk. It can absorb a tremendous amount of damage, making it a staple in the Great and Ultra Leagues. It can wear down opponents and force them to burn their shields. While its attack stat is too low for it to be a premier raid attacker, its defensive prowess in PvP is legendary.

For most players, Scizor is a slightly more versatile first choice. It performs well in both PvP and raids, giving you more immediate value across different aspects of the game. However, if you are a dedicated PvP player looking for a tank for your team, you can't go wrong with Steelix.

Bonus Tip. How to Farm Metal Coat in Pokemon GO without Walking

Farming a Metal Coat in Pokémon GO can be quite time-consuming. As a result, many players opt to use third-party tools like TunesKit Location Changer to streamline the process and save valuable time. TunesKit Location Changer is a tool that lets users change the GPS location on their iPhone or Android devices with a single click. It is a wonderful choice for playing location-based games like Pokemon GO without physically moving. The software offers various simulation modes, including Joystick, Two-Spot, and Multi-Spot Movement, allowing you to simulate walking along a customized route.

TunesKit Location Changer also features a specific Game Mode for Pokémon GO and a cooldown timer to help prevent your account from being penalized for unrealistic travel speeds, making it a safer option for farming items like Metal Coat.

Part 7. Conclusion

Getting a Metal Coat in Pokémon GO is a marathon, not a sprint. While there's no magic button to press, you can guarantee a steady supply of chances by focusing on your 7-day PokéStop streak. Treat every other method as a welcome bonus. By following this strategic guide, you'll be adding a powerful Scizor or Steelix to your collection before you know it.