Textbook

A textbook, also known as a handbook, is a type of reference work or book full of instructions. They are normally given out in classes of any sort to study for subjects. Subjects that textbooks are used for include mathematics-related courses, science-related courses, history courses, literature courses, and even courses relating to a field work such as bomb disposal or government.

Because of Peter Stillman's extensive career in explosives ordinance and bomb disposal, textbooks meant for classes teaching the field of bomb disposal usually have at least one mention of Stillman included.

Behind the scenes
"A technical handbook. Useful for raising your skills. How far you can improve depends on your natural limits."

- Textbook (all varieties) description in Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops Plus

Textbooks, referred to as handbooks by Roy Campbell, appear as a procurable item in Portable Ops Plus. They allow soldiers to instantly level up a specific area to their maximum potential. There are 11 textbooks in all, each relating to a specific area that soldiers are proficient at. As such, each of the textbooks/handbooks are given a distinctive name. Each textbook can only be used once by each soldier.

During Easy mode, when first procuring a textbook from underneath a Kerotan, an optional radio conversation will have Roy Campbell explain the functions, and will also react with implied disappointment when learning that they only managed to find a handbook rather than a magazine.

The names of the handbooks are as follows:


 * Handguns = Handgun Handbook;
 * Sub-Machine-Guns = The 411 on SMGs;
 * Assault Rifles = Advanced Assault Rifle;
 * Shotguns = The Shotgun Professional;
 * Sniper Rifles = Sniper Rifle Bible;
 * Heavy Weapons = Heavy Weaponry 101;
 * CQC/bladed combat = Fundamentals of cutlery;
 * Throwing weapons = The Art of Weapons Throwing;
 * Traps = Dissertation of Traps;
 * Technical Skills = Encyclopedia of Armor;
 * Medical Skills = Medical Handbook;