Skillful handling (7)
I believe the answer is:
finesse
'skillful handling' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is all the clue.
(Other definitions for finesse that I've seen before include "Subtle skill; bridge ploy" , "Tact and poise in handling situations" , "Adroitness" , "Subtlety, expertise" , "Sophistication" .)