How to solo defeat Shadow Pinsir in Pokemon GO 3-star raids

Shadow Pinsir's best moveset, counters, and overall viability in Pokemon GO's competitive battles are crucial for trainers aiming to make the most of this Stag Beetle Pokemon. Originally introduced in July 2016, Pinsir has been obtainable through various means, including its Shadow variant which was released in February 2020.

The Galarian Expedition: Taken Over event in Pokemon GO is bringing exciting new challenges, and one of the highlighted 3-star Shadow raids will be Shadow Pinsir. From Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at 12 am local time, through Friday, October 11, 2024, at 8 pm, trainers can face off against this Bug-type powerhouse.

With a massive Combat Power and a dangerous moveset, soloing Shadow Pinsir might seem like an uphill battle. However, with the right counters and strategy, you can take it down without needing a group. This guide will break down the best Pokemon and tactics to ensure victory.

Note: Parts of this article are subjective and reflect the writer's opinion.

How to solo defeat Shadow Pinsir in Pokemon GO Shadow Raids

Pinsir, as seen in the anime (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Before we dive into the best counters, it’s essential to understand Shadow Pinsir’s stats and moveset:

Type: Bug
Combat Power (CP): 21,306
Attack: 238
Defense: 182
Stamina: 3,600 HP
Fast Attacks: Fury Cutter, Bug Bite, Rock Smash
Charged Attacks: Vice Grip, Submission*, X-Scissor, Close Combat, Superpower, frustration (in case it has not been purified)
Weaknesses: Fire, Flying, Rock
Resistances: Fighting, Grass, Ground

Understanding this moveset will let you anticipate the type of attacks you’ll face and which Pokemon can endure them while dishing out maximum damage.

Note: The recommended solo-capable counter Pokemon are based on simulated game data, and results may vary. For best results, it's advised for the recommended Pokemon below to have the highest possible IV stats and be powered up to the highest possible CP to successfully clear the raid solo.

Without any Weather Boosts in play

Shadow Pinsir’s weaknesses to Fire, Flying, and Rock types give you several options when building your team. Here are the top counters to help you secure a solo victory without relying on weather boosts:

Mega Rayquaza with Air Slash and Dragon Ascent: Rayquaza’s Flying-type moves deal massive damage to Bug-type Pokemon like Pinsir. Its high attack power makes it a strong choice.
Primal Groudon with Mud Shot and Fire Punch: With Fire Punch in its arsenal, Primal Groudon can burn through Pinsir’s Bug-type defenses. Groudon’s bulk also helps it survive longer in battle.
Skeledirge with Incinerate and Crunch: Skeledirge’s Fire-type moves will chip away at Pinsir’s health quickly. Crunch offers solid coverage in case you need a secondary attack.
Marshadow with Sucker Punch and Fire Punch: While Marshadow is known for its Ghost and Fighting moves, Fire Punch is what makes it a valuable counter here.
Mega Charizard Y with Fire Spin and Dragon Claw: As a Fire/Flying type, Mega Charizard Y capitalizes on both of Pinsir’s weaknesses, and its Fire Spin attack will melt through Pinsir’s defenses.

Also read: Pokemon GO CP calculator

Additional solo counters to Pokemon GO Shadow Pinsir raids based on Weather Boosts

Some viable Shadow Pinsir solo raid counters (Image via The Pokemon Company)

If you are looking for more options to take down Shadow Pinsir in Pokemon GO based on weather boosts or available party members, here are a few more reliable picks:

Mega Gengar with Shadow Claw and Shadow Punch
Shadow Ho-Oh Incinerate and Sacred Fire
Togekiss with Air Slash and Aerial Ace
Giratina Origin with Shadow Claw and Shadow Ball
Shadow Chandelure with Incinerate and Flame Charge
Hisuian Typhlosion with Hex and Fire Punch
Moltres with Fire Spin and Ancient Power
Enamorus with Fairy Wind and Fly
Mega Salamence with Fire Fang and Outrage
Shadow Crobat with Air Slash and Cross Poison
Mega Blaziken with Fire Spin and Blaze Kick
Talonflame with Incinerate and Fly

Also read: Pokemon GO Evolution Calculator

Soloing Shadow Pinsir in Pokemon GO 3-star raids is achievable with the right team and strategy. Focus on exploiting its weaknesses to Fire, Flying, and Rock types, and consider weather boosts to maximize your damage.

With the Pokemon and counters outlined above, you’ll be well-equipped to conquer this raid during the Galarian Expedition: Taken Over event.

Check out our other Pokemon GO guides:

Ditto disguises
Buddy Evolution Adventure Together guide
Best Fast Attacks in Pokemon GO
Sierra counters
Cliff counters
Arlo counters
Giovanni counters
Team GO Rocket Grunts