How much can ball handler use his arm?

[Travelling Man]

Play On or "call a foul"--this is always a dilemma. How do we percieve what the "intent" was in sticking out their arm (i.e., chicken winging it)?
If advantage is created, then whistile it is what I do.
In cases where the offensive dribbler is using it to ward off a pesky defeneder who is actually D'ing him/her up pretty good---then I'll call that offensive foul. I don't err toward "just giving" offensive players rights of way.

[just another ref]

Originally Posted by Travelling Man

Play On or "call a foul"--this is always a dilemma. How do we percieve what the "intent" was in sticking out their arm....

Perhaps the quotes mean you know this. Intent, in this case, has nothing to do with it.

[Rob1968]

Let's take a look at 4-24-5 . . . "It is not legal to use hands on an opponent which in any way inhibits the freedom of movement of the opponent . . ."
And, more the to OP-
4-24-7 . . ."It is not legal to use the hand and/or forearm to prevent an opponent from attacking the ball during a dribble or when throwing for goal."
Of course, Basketball Rules Fundamentals 10. applies..."Personal fouls always involve illegal contact . . ."

Many coaches teach ballhandlers to set the off hand/forearm, in a position to discourage the defender from reaching in, and it becomes a moment of judgement by the covering official as to whether contact on that arm constitutes a foul, by the offense or defense.