[Boost-users] scoped_ptr faq

From: Bruno Martínez (br1_at_[hidden])
Date: 2005-11-22 18:06:05

Hi.

I had the same question that is answered there, but the answer didn't fit  
my problem.  I'm using scoped_ptr<node> inside node itself, so node is  
incomplete at the point of use.  That forbids using auto_ptr, IIUC.

I think it would be good to add to the answer:

Q. Why doesn't scoped_ptr have a release() member?
A. When reading source code, it is valuable to be able to draw conclusions  
about program behavior based on the types being used. If scoped_ptr had a  
release() member, it would become possible to transfer ownership of the  
held pointer, weakening its role as a way of limiting resource lifetime to  
a given context. Use std::auto_ptr where transfer of ownership is  
required, or shared_ptr if incomplete type support is needed.

"or shared_ptr if incomplete type support is needed." is mine.

How's that?

Regards,
Bruno