I have a couple of them, used since 2009 and think they are great radios. Depends where you are and what systems are around you whether I would recommend.
I still use one almost daily, but with P25 Phase 2 coming out and the 325p2 now on the market this would be a better choice if you have Phase 2 systems in your area as the 396xt cannot decode phase 2. Otherwiae, they are the same radio, though I believe the 325p2 is slightly more sensitive and decodes digital transmissions a little smoother. Also uses BNC antenna as opposed to SMA.
The 996xt has been discontinued so I expect the 396xt also has been, even though there are still stocks of both out there.
Mark
WS1095/536/996P2/HP1e/HP2e/996XT/325P2/396XT/PRO668/PSR800/PRO652