2-Man Scramble Handicap Calculator

Calculate your team's handicap allowance for a 2-man scramble format by entering both players' handicaps below.

Understanding 2-Man Scramble Handicaps

The scramble format allows teams to select the best shot after each stroke and play from that position. Handicaps help level the playing field between teams of different skill levels.

Common Scramble Handicap Formulas

Calculation Method Formula Example (10 & 15) When Used
35/15 Method (Low × 0.35) + (High × 0.15) (10×0.35)+(15×0.15)=5.75 Most common tournament standard
50% Average (Player1 + Player2) ÷ 4 (10+15)÷4=6.25 Simpler calculations
25/75 Method (Low × 0.25) + (High × 0.75) (10×0.25)+(15×0.75)=13.75 Favors higher handicappers
60/40 Method (Low × 0.60) + (High × 0.40) (10×0.60)+(15×0.40)=12.0 Favors lower handicappers

Key Factors in Scramble Handicaps

Player Contributions

  • Both players should contribute drives
  • Use each player's strengths
  • Alternate putting order
  • Balance risk/reward decisions

Strategy Tips

  • Higher handicapper putts first
  • Take smart risks on second shots
  • Always have one safe play
  • Communicate clearly

Course Management

  • Plan which drives to use
  • Consider wind and hazards
  • Play to your strengths
  • Don't always choose longest drive

Tournament Rules

  • Verify calculation method
  • Minimum drives required (usually 4-6)
  • Putt out or gimme rules
  • Handicap maximums may apply

Scramble Performance Expectations

Team Combined Handicap Expected Score (Par 72) Typical Tournament Result
0-10 62-68 Contention for victory
11-20 69-74 Middle of the field
21-30 75-80 Back of the pack
30+ 81+ Just for fun

Frequently Asked Questions About Scramble Handicaps

What's the most common scramble handicap formula?

The 35/15 method is most widely accepted:

  • 35% of the lower handicap
  • 15% of the higher handicap
  • Example: (10×0.35)+(15×0.15)=5.75
  • Round to nearest whole number (6)

How many drives must each player contribute?

Typical tournament requirements:

  • Minimum 4-6 drives per player
  • Must use at least one drive on par 3s
  • Mark which drives were used on scorecard
  • Penalties for not meeting requirements

Should we always play the longest drive?

Drive selection considerations:

  • Not always the longest is best
  • Consider angle to the hole
  • Evaluate hazards and trouble
  • Think about next shot position

How does team handicap affect our strategy?

Strategic adjustments:

  • Higher handicaps can take more risks
  • Lower handicaps should play safer
  • Balance aggressive and conservative play
  • Use handicap strokes on hardest holes

What's the best putting strategy in scrambles?

Effective putting approaches:

  • Higher handicap putts first
  • First putt should be aggressive
  • Second putt can be more conservative
  • Read putts together

Can we use mulligans in tournament scrambles?

About mulligans and extras:

  • Official tournaments don't allow mulligans
  • Charity events may sell mulligans
  • Typically 2-4 mulligans per team
  • Save for crucial shots

How do we handle handicap maximums?

Common tournament limits:

  • Maximum individual handicap (often 18-24)
  • Maximum team combined handicap
  • Verify rules before tournament
  • Higher handicaps may be adjusted down

What's a good scramble score for our handicaps?

Score expectations:

  • Subtract 25-30% from your combined handicap
  • Example: Combined 20 handicap → 14-15 under
  • Good teams score 8-12 under
  • Winning scores often 15-20 under

Should we alternate shot types or stick to strengths?

Playing to strengths:

  • Use each player's best shots
  • But don't become predictable
  • Alternate putters to manage pressure
  • Have both players attempt key shots

How do we convert our handicap to course handicap?

Final adjustments:

  • Calculate team handicap first
  • Then apply course slope: (Team Hcp × Slope) ÷ 113
  • Example: 10 handicap on slope 125 → (10×125)/113=11
  • Round to nearest whole number