Golf Handicap Calculator
Modify the values and click the calculate button to see detailed results
Input Values
Golf Handicap Explained
A golf handicap measures a player’s potential ability, with higher numbers indicating less skilled players. This system enables golfers of different skill levels to compete fairly by adjusting scores with extra strokes. While essential in amateur play, handicaps aren’t used professionally.
Key Components:
- Course Rating (67-77): Expected score for a scratch golfer (handicap 0)
- Slope Rating (55-155): Difficulty comparison between bogey (~18 handicap) and scratch golfers
- Course Handicap: Stroke adjustment based on course difficulty
Dynamic Calculation:
Handicaps are regularly updated using recent round scores and include:
- Playing Conditions Adjustment (PCC): Automatic weather compensation (-1 to +3)
- Score Differentials: Compares actual scores to course difficulty
Historical Context:
Originating from horse racing’s “hand-in-cap” odds system, golf handicapping evolved from “adjustors of the odds” to modern club committees.
Key Terms:
- Scratch Golfer: Zero handicap
- Bogey Golfer: ~18 handicap
This system creates equitable competition while accounting for variable course conditions and player performance trends. Players must post same-day scores for accurate PCC adjustments.