Short answer: Bowling handicap is the base minus the average, times the percentage, with fractions dropped. At 90% of 220, a 167 average gets a 47 pin handicap: (220 minus 167) times 0.90 is 47.7, and the fraction is dropped. Use the calculator below or print the full chart.
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Handicap calculator
Average Base Percentage %
Handicap: 47 pins per game
How bowling handicap works
Handicap gives lower-average bowlers extra pins per game so they can compete with higher-average bowlers. The league picks a base (often 210, 220 or 230) and a percentage (often 80, 90 or 100). A bowler who averages at or above the base gets no handicap. Some leagues also set a maximum handicap, so check your league rules.
Printable handicap chart
The printable chart covers averages from 100 to 219 at 90% of 220, 90% of 210, 90% of 230, 80% of 220 and 100% of 210.
Track handicap automatically
LaneLogic can score games with each bowler's handicap and keeps averages up to date as you bowl. Free on iPhone and Android.
Frequently asked questions
How do you calculate a bowling handicap?
Subtract the bowler's average from the league's base, multiply by the league's percentage, and drop any fraction. At 90% of 220, a 167 average gets 47 pins.
What is the most common bowling handicap?
90% of 220 is common in league bowling, but leagues choose their own base and percentage.
Does a bowler above the base get a handicap?
No. A bowler averaging at or above the base gets a handicap of 0.