Donphan

If gyms aren't stable in your area, considering placing Pidgeys in, collect 10 coins, and transfer them immediately after they are kicked out.

Sorry to ask this in your topic. I have a 93% IV Donphan with tackle + play rough. Has anyone experience with it?

Regarding your case. I would definetely power it up because I like diversity and I have a sufficient amount of high CP defenders. If this is not your case yet, consider investing your dust in something else.

I've only seen a couple in gyms and most were placed as trophies right after gen 2 release (my area is super competitive though). I always went in with an Exegutor for safety and keeping in mind I could use him effectively elsewhere on Blissey or Snorlax, Vape etc. He isn't a bad defender but nothing special either regardless of moveset. The only real question about investment is whether his placement will cost you coins versus other mons. If not then go for it.

If you run out of Blisseys and Snorlaxes power him up and put him in, not 1st tier but still better than a Gyarados

Got the exact same mon, except I powered him to 30 :)

He's pretty good. PR hits hard and fast, and is an uncommon defensive move as well, so people will take hits.

If you need more defenders, then power her up, unless stardust is an issue.

I've evolved 3 or even more and none of them even has Counter. By all means, spoil that beast :3