DA Form 5738-R: Section II Illustrated Components List – If you’re a US Army soldier, supply sergeant, unit armorer, or logistics specialist responsible for equipment accountability, you’ve likely encountered DA Form 5738-R. Officially titled Section II. Illustrated Components List / Hand Receipt (LRA), this form is a critical tool in military property management. Published on February 1, 1989, and still active today, it remains essential for tracking sensitive or complex equipment in the US Army.
In this SEO-optimized guide tailored for US-based Army personnel, we break down exactly what DA Form 5738-R is, why it matters for operational readiness, how to use Section II properly, and where to download the latest fillable version. Whether you’re conducting a hand receipt, preparing for an inventory inspection, or ensuring 100% accountability before deployment, this article covers everything you need.
What Is DA Form 5738-R?
DA Form 5738-R is a Department of the Army form used specifically for documenting the Illustrated Components List and serving as a Hand Receipt. The “LRA” designation stands for Local Reproduction Authorized, meaning units can print and reproduce it locally as needed without restriction.
- Proponent: G-4 (Logistics)
- Form Date: 02/01/1989 (still current and active)
- Distribution: UNCLASSIFIED with Distribution Restriction Code A (approved for public release and unlimited distribution)
It functions as both a detailed parts list and a legal hand receipt, creating a clear chain of accountability between the issuing authority and the end-user (soldier or unit).
Purpose of DA Form 5738-R: Why It Matters for US Army Readiness?
The primary purpose of DA Form 5738-R is to provide a detailed, illustrated list of every component and part associated with a specific piece of equipment. This ensures:
- Full accountability from issuance to turn-in
- Prevention of equipment loss, damage, or mismanagement
- Accurate tracking of serialized items, accessories, and sub-components
- Support for maintenance, training, and operational readiness
In the US Army supply system, losing even a single small component can render expensive equipment non-mission-capable. DA Form 5738-R closes that gap by combining visual identification (illustrations) with formal hand-receipt procedures. It’s especially critical for weapons systems, optics, communication gear, vehicles, and other sensitive items where every nut, bolt, battery, or accessory must be accounted for.
Key benefits include:
- Reduces inventory errors
- Provides legal protection during change-of-command inventories or audits
- Supports compliance with AR 710-2 (Supply Policy Below the Wholesale Level) and other property accountability regulations
- Helps units maintain the highest state of readiness for training and combat operations
Understanding Section II: Illustrated Components List
The heart of the form is Section II – Illustrated Components List. Unlike standard hand receipts (such as DA Form 2062), this section includes detailed illustrations of each component alongside its description, quantity, and stock number.
This visual reference makes it easier for soldiers to:
- Quickly identify correct parts during issue or turn-in
- Verify completeness of kits or sets
- Conduct accurate inspections without needing separate technical manuals
Section II turns the form into a self-contained reference document—perfect for field use where access to digital systems may be limited.
How to Properly Fill Out and Use DA Form 5738-R? (Step-by-Step)
Follow these best practices to avoid common errors:
- Header Information: Enter unit, date, equipment nomenclature, national stock number (NSN), and serial number (if applicable).
- Section II Completion:
- List every component with its illustration reference.
- Record quantity authorized vs. quantity on hand.
- Have the hand receipt holder sign and date.
- Issue and Turn-In:
- Check off each item as it is issued or returned.
- Note any shortages or damages immediately and initiate appropriate paperwork (e.g., statement of charges or DA Form 2062 annex).
- Updates: Revise the form whenever equipment configuration changes (fielding of new components, modifications, etc.).
- Retention: Keep copies per unit SOP and AR 25-400-2 (Army Records Information Management System).
Pro Tip for US Army Users: Always cross-reference with the equipment’s technical manual (TM) or modified table of organization and equipment (MTOE) to ensure the illustrated list is current. Report discrepancies to your supply sergeant or PBO (Property Book Officer) right away.
Where to Download DA Form 5738-R? (Official & Fillable)
The most trusted source for the official DA Form 5738-R is the U.S. Army Publishing Directorate (APD):
Official Download: DA Form 5738-R on Army Publishing Directorate
Many units also use fillable PDF versions for faster processing. Always verify you’re using the latest version from an authorized Army source to remain compliant.
(Note: The user-provided download link can be inserted here for direct access—ensure it points to a legitimate fillable PDF.)
Related Forms You Should Know
- DA Form 2062 – Hand Receipt / Annex Number (most common companion form)
- DA Form 5748-R – Shipment Unit Packing List
- DA Form 2404 / 2407 – Equipment inspection and maintenance forms
Using DA Form 5738-R in conjunction with these creates a complete property accountability package.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is DA Form 5738-R still required in 2026?
A: Yes. It remains an active form for illustrated component tracking and hand receipts.
Q: Can I reproduce it locally?
A: Yes – the LRA (Local Reproduction Authorized) marking allows units to print as many copies as needed.
Q: Who signs the hand receipt portion?
A: The person assuming responsibility for the equipment (hand receipt holder) and the issuing authority.
Q: Does it replace DA Form 2062?
A: No. It complements it—especially when detailed component illustrations are required.
Final Thoughts: Accountability Equals Readiness
In today’s US Army, precise property accountability isn’t optional—it directly impacts mission success and soldier safety. DA Form 5738-R Section II delivers the visual clarity and formal documentation needed to maintain full control of complex equipment sets.
Whether you’re in the motor pool, arms room, or forward operating base, mastering this form helps your unit stay audit-ready and combat-effective.
Need the form right now? Download it from the official APD link above or use the secure download link provided with this article.