You finally have enough Candy to evolve Scyther or Onix. You tap “Evolve”… and Pokémon GO stops you with one missing item: Metal Coat.
No shop option. No clear hint. Just confusion.
If you’re wondering how to get Metal Coat in Pokémon GO, why it feels so rare, or whether you’re doing something wrong—you’re not alone. Metal Coat is one of the most searched evolution items in the game, mainly because it relies heavily on luck (RNG) and consistent play.

Let’s break everything down properly, from basics to advanced tips, so you know exactly what to do.
What Is a Metal Coat in Pokémon GO?
Metal Coat is a special evolution item introduced from the Johto region. Unlike Candy, it can’t be earned by catching Pokémon or walking buddies.
Pokémon that need Metal Coat to evolve:
- Scyther → Scizor
- Onix → Steelix
To evolve either Pokémon, you need:
- 1 Metal Coat
- The required Candy (50 for Scyther, 50 for Onix)
Without Metal Coat, evolution is impossible—no workaround, no shortcut.
Also Read: How to Evolve Onix in Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Complete Step-by-Step Guide
How to Get Metal Coat in Pokémon GO
There is no single guaranteed method, but there are multiple ways to increase your chances. Understanding these methods properly saves a lot of time and frustration.
1. Spin PokéStops and Gyms
The most common way to get a Metal Coat is by spinning PokéStops and Gyms.
- Every spin has a small chance to drop evolution items
- Metal Coat is part of the Johto evolution item pool
- Gyms can also drop evolution items, not just PokéStops
⚠️ Important to know:
- The drop is random
- You might get a King’s Rock or Dragon Scale instead
- You can spin hundreds of stops without seeing one—this is normal
2. Maintain a 7-Day PokéStop Spin Streak (Best Method)
If you’re looking for the most reliable method, this is it.
When you spin at least one PokéStop or Gym every day for 7 days, the 7th-day spin has:
- Higher item rewards
- Increased chances of evolving items like Metal Coat
While Metal Coat is still not guaranteed, players report far better success from 7-day streaks compared to random spins.
💡 Tip:
- Set a daily reminder so you don’t break your streak
- Even one quick spin a day is enough
3. Special Research & Timed Research Tasks
During certain events, Pokémon GO releases:
- Special Research
- Timed Research
- Event-exclusive tasks
Some of these tasks reward:
- Evolution items (including Metal Coat)
- Or bundles where Metal Coat can appear
These tasks are event-dependent, so availability changes throughout the year.
👉 Always check current research rewards before deleting tasks.
4. Limited-Time Events (Best Farming Opportunity)
Some events increase:
- PokéStop spin rewards
- Evolution item drop chances
- Johto-themed item availability
Community Days, Johto Tours, or anniversary events often make Metal Coat much easier to obtain.
If you’re actively hunting Metal Coat:
- Events are your best window
- Casual spinning during events often works better than weeks of normal play
Also Read: Does Pokémon GO Plus Need to Be Charged to Work? (Complete Gamer Guide)
Best & Fastest Way to Get a Metal Coat
For most players, the best strategy is a combination approach:
- Spin PokéStops and Gyms daily
- Maintain a 7-day streak without fail
- Play actively during events
- Keep bag space free for item drops
There’s no instant method, but consistent play beats grinding.
Why Metal Coat Feels So Rare (RNG Explained Simply)
Metal Coat drops are controlled by RNG (Random Number Generation).
This means:
- Every spin is independent
- Past spins don’t affect future results
- Another player’s luck doesn’t impact yours
So yes—your friend might get Metal Coat in 3 spins, while you need 100+. That doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong.
How Many Metal Coats Do You Need?
- One Metal Coat per evolution
- Each Metal Coat is consumed after use
- You can’t reuse it
If you plan to evolve:
- Multiple Scyther
- Or want a better IV Scizor later
You’ll need to farm again.
Common Mistakes Players Make
Many players unknowingly slow down their progress by:
- Spinning only one PokéStop repeatedly
- Ignoring gyms
- Breaking 7-day streaks
- Expecting guaranteed drops
- Deleting research tasks too quickly
- Thinking Metal Coat can be bought or traded
Avoiding these mistakes saves weeks of effort.
Also Read: How to Get Zacian in Pokémon Sword ?
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Metal Coat
- Spin both PokéStops and Gyms
- Don’t break your daily spin streak
- Play more during event days
- Keep item bag space available
- Be patient—this item is designed to be slow
Consistency matters more than grinding.
Final Thoughts
Metal Coat isn’t rare because it’s locked—it’s rare because Pokémon GO rewards patience and consistency.
If you:
- Spin daily
- Maintain streaks
- Play during events
You will get it eventually.
Remember:
There’s no shortcut—but there is a smart way to play.
Stick with it, and that Scizor or Steelix will be yours soon.
FAQs About Metal Coat in Pokémon GO
Can you buy Metal Coat in Pokémon GO?
No. It is not available in the Shop.
Can Metal Coat be traded?
No. Evolution items cannot be traded.
Is Metal Coat guaranteed on the 7th-day spin?
No, but chances are higher.
Can you get Metal Coat from gifts?
No. Gifts do not drop evolution items.
Can Shadow Pokémon use Metal Coat?
Yes. Shadow Scyther and Onix can evolve if you meet item and Candy requirements.
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