The Pokémon Ultra Moon razor claw is an essential item for any dedicated player looking to optimize their team and complete the Pokédex. This seemingly simple piece of iron holds the key to unlocking specific evolutionary paths that are otherwise impossible to achieve. Understanding how to acquire and utilize this item is crucial for anyone serious about the mechanics of Alola.
What is the Razor Claw in Pokémon Ultra Moon?
At its core, the razor claw is a held item that functions as a catalyst for evolution, specifically tied to time-based triggers. Unlike stones that work instantly, this item requires patience and strategy. In Pokémon Ultra Moon, it serves the singular purpose of evolving Sneasel into Weavile, provided certain conditions are met. It is a tool that bridges the gap between traditional gameplay and the intricate nuances of the Sinnoh-based evolutionary system carried over into the Alolan setting.
Acquiring the Razor Claw Early in the Game
Obtaining the razor claw in Ultra Moon requires a specific sequence of events that takes place very early in the story, making it easy to miss for players who rush the narrative. To secure this item, you must progress through the main quest until you reach the Ruins of Conflict. This location is a mandatory visit during the initial chapters of the game. Inside the ruins, you will encounter a character known as the Explorer Kit.
The Explorer Kit Encounter
After navigating the puzzles of the Ruins of Conflict, you will find the Explorer Kit situated on a table. Interacting with this item triggers a cutscene where the resident archaeologist explains its function. Following this explanation, the kit becomes a permanent addition to your bag. While the Explorer Kit itself is not the razor claw, the interaction is vital because it introduces you to the item's location on the subsequent map screen, guiding you toward the actual razor claw hidden in the wild.
Locating the Actual Razor Claw Item
Once you possess the Explorer Kit, you can use it to scan the environment for hidden items marked by a distinctive blue circle on your map. This functionality is critical because the razor claw is hidden in plain sight in the game's overworld. You must travel to the area directly north of Heahea City, on the rocky terrain that separates the urban center from the volcanic zones. Look for a rock formation that appears slightly different from the others; interacting with this specific rock while the scanner is active will yield the razor claw.
The Evolution Process: From Sneasel to Weavile
With the razor claw finally in your inventory, the next step is to apply it to a Sneasel. However, Pokémon Ultra Moon introduces a specific requirement that differentiates it from other evolutionary items. The evolution cannot happen at any time; it must occur during the night cycle in the game. Furthermore, the Sneasel must know the move "Fake Out" to trigger the evolution. Once these conditions are satisfied—night time and Fake Out known—using the razor claw on the Sneasel will instantly transform it into a powerful Weavile.
Strategic Importance and Competitive Use
Weavile is widely regarded as one of the most formidable Dark/Ice type Pokémon available in the main series games, and securing it via the razor claw significantly boosts a team's offensive capabilities. Its base 125 Speed and 120 Attack allow it to outpace and devastate a wide range of opponents. For competitive players in Ultra Moon, obtaining a Weavile with the correct nature, ability (Pressure), and moveset is a top priority, making the journey to find the razor claw a time investment that yields substantial returns in battle.
Common Mistakes and Tips for Success
Many players fail to obtain the razor claw simply because they attempt to evolve their Sneasel too early in the story or during the daytime. It is also common to overlook the requirement regarding the Fake Out move, leading to confusion when the item does not seem to work. To avoid these pitfalls, ensure you have progressed far enough to access Heahea City, equip the Explorer Kit, set your 3DS or Nintendo Switch to the correct time for night evolution, and verify that your Sneasel knows the appropriate move.
