What differentiates a "property book" from a "hand receipt"?

A property book serves as a comprehensive, organized master record that details all property accountability within a unit. It functions as the official log of equipment, supplies, and other items that the unit is responsible for. This record helps ensure that all property is tracked correctly, including who has it, where it is located, and its condition.

In contrast, a hand receipt is a document used to acknowledge the transfer of responsibility for specific items from one individual to another, usually within the context of a temporary duty, assignment, or loan. The hand receipt details which items are being transferred and confirms the new custodian's responsibility for those items.

This clear distinction highlights the property book's role as the overarching accountability tool, whereas the hand receipt serves as a more localized acknowledgment of responsibility for particular pieces of property.