Handle: After the neckline (resistance) is formed on the right side of the cup, there is a recess that forms the handle. Sometimes this looks like a flag or pennant handle that leans down, other times it is simply short recoil. The handle represents the final consolidation, i.e., the retreat before the large break and can return up to 1/3 of the way up the cup, but usually no more. The smaller the handle, the more important the rise and break is. Sometimes it is prudent to wait for a break above the line resistance set by the highs of the cup.
Duration: The cup can extend from 1 to 6 months, sometimes more in the weekly charts. The handle can be from 1 week to several weeks and ideally completed in 1-4 weeks.
Volume: There should be a substantial increase in breakage volume above the handle strength.
Target: The projected progression after breakout of the neckline can be estimated by measuring the distance from the resistance of the cup to the bottom of the cup.