NationalDex
sandslash
#028

Sandslash

Mouse Pokémon

Ground

Although they are sharp, its claws and spikes often break off. They grow back the next day, so it is not bothered by the temporary loss.

Base Stats

HP 75
Attack 100
Defense 110
Sp. Atk 45
Sp. Def 55
Speed 65
Total 450

Type Effectiveness

Abilities

Held Items

Forms

Evolution Chain

Moves

Details

Category Mouse Pokémon
Height 1.0 m
Weight 29.5 kg
Base Exp 158
Growth Rate Medium
Capture Rate 90
Base Happiness 70
Gender 50% ♂ / 50% ♀
Habitat Rough Terrain
Egg Groups Ground

Sprites

sandslash Front Front
sandslash Back Back
sandslash Front Shiny Front Shiny
sandslash Back Shiny Back Shiny
sandslash Official Art Official Art
sandslash Official Art (Shiny) Official Art (Shiny)

Competitive

zu Usage: 11.9%
Rapid Spin
Item
Figy Berry / Leftovers
Ability
Sand Rush
Nature
Impish
EVs
HP 252
Def 160
Spe 96

Strategy Overview

Sandslash sets itself apart from other Pokemon in the ZU metagame thanks to its access to both Rapid Spin and Stealth Rock and its Ground typing that gives it a resistance to Stealth Rock. Its solid Defense stat lets it successfully check a handful of physical Pokemon such as Electivire, Golem, and Muk. Sandslash provides much-needed role compression for teams lacking entry hazards, hazard removal, and an Electric-type immunity. Unfortunately, Sandslash's poor Special Defense makes it easy prey for common special attackers such as a multitude of Silvally formes, Swanna, and Kadabra. In addition, Sandslash lacks reliable recovery, which can be a problem when switching in to remove hazards. Sandslash faces competition as a spinner from Avalugg and Komala, both of which have access to reliable recovery.

Most Used Moves

Toxic
52.7%
Knock Off
50.2%

Most Used Items

Leftovers
82.1%

Competitive data from Smogon University via data.pkmn.cc