While a Challenger Bread Pan (or other cast iron baking pan) is not exactly the same as a cast iron Dutch Oven, mainly because it's sole purpose is baking bread, it does work on the same principle. That is, it is a heavy, enclosed cast iron pan with a tight fitting lid that holds the steam inside to optimise your sourdough. I have baked many loaves in various Dutch Ovens, both round and oval, as well as in a cast iron bread pan similar to the Challenger Bread Pan, and I find that this style of pan gives a more golden brown crust.