The Metal Coat is a key evolution item in Pokémon Legends Z-A, required to evolve Scyther into Scizor or Onix into Steelix. There are two reliable ways to get it — by purchasing it or earning it through a side mission.

Buying Metal Coat from Racine Construction

After progressing through the story, Metal Coat becomes available for purchase at Racine Construction in Lumiose City.

Location Unlock condition Cost Seller
Racine Construction (Lumiose City) Complete Main Mission 14: Reaching Rank E 4,980 Pokédollars Worker NPC in the garage area

This is the most direct and repeatable way to obtain the item. Once you’ve reached Rank E, head to Lumiose City and enter Racine Construction. Inside the garage area, look for two workers; the one on the left sells Metal Coat.

Getting Metal Coat as a side mission reward

If you prefer not to spend Pokédollars, you can earn a Metal Coat through a specific side mission.

Side Mission Name Availability Reward
114 A Feather from Skarmory Unlocks after Main Mission 24 (Rank C) Metal Coat

This is an earlier opportunity compared to buying it, allowing you to evolve Steelix or Scizor before the late game if you’ve advanced enough through side content.

How to buy and use the Metal Coat

Follow these steps to obtain and use Metal Coat efficiently.

Step 1

Complete Main Mission 14 and reach Rank E to unlock the Racine Construction vendor.

Step 2

Travel to Racine Construction in Lumiose City, accessible from the southeast section beyond Wild Zone 2.

Step 3

Head inside the garage area and talk to the left-side worker who sells items. Purchase Metal Coat for 4,980 Pokédollars.

Step 4

Equip the Metal Coat on your Scyther or Onix from your inventory.

Step 5

Trade the equipped Pokémon with another player. The trade will trigger the evolution into Scizor (for Scyther) or Steelix (for Onix).

Tips for evolving with Metal Coat

  • You only need one Metal Coat per evolution.
  • The item is consumed after the evolution completes.
  • Metal Coat can be repurchased later if you need more.
  • Always save your game before trading to avoid losing rare items

The fastest way to get Metal Coat is by purchasing it from Racine Construction after reaching Rank E. However, completing Side Mission 114 can get you one earlier without spending any money. Once acquired, the Metal Coat lets you evolve two of the most powerful Steel-type Pokémon in Pokémon Legends Z-A.