What instrument is used to convey public land to an individual?

The correct instrument used to convey public land to an individual is a land patent. A land patent is a legal document that is issued by a governmental authority, typically signifying the transfer of land ownership from the government to an individual or entity. It serves as evidence of title and is particularly pertinent when dealing with land that has been acquired from public or federal ownership.

While a land deed is commonly used in real estate transactions to transfer ownership of private property, it does not specifically address transfers from public land. A grant deed also serves a similar function, but, like a land deed, it usually pertains to private property transactions rather than land being conveyed from governmental ownership. A property transfer form refers to a more generic form and lacks the specific legal standing that is provided by a land patent regarding public land.

Thus, the land patent uniquely identifies the formal transfer of public land ownership, making it the appropriate instrument for this particular situation.