Normally I wouldn't consider it - too expensive. But lehmans.com has the 12.5" alpha bread knife with the black handle discounted to $130 and with the 30%off sitewide coupon that brings it down to $91 which is tempting, within Mac Superior price range. Coupon ends the 13th so I have only two days to decide. Is Gude worth the hype? Is the synthetic handle crap versus the olive/pear/etc wood handles? What about cutting capability on different style loaves, and edge retention and ease of sharpening? I am considering getting a spyderco sharpmaker for serrated knives. Any help appreciated. TIA.