First, welcome to the S&W Forum!

Second, that isn't a 'good' price these days - it's a great price!

Seven years ago, I bought both a new 296 and a new 696, on the same day. The 696 was regular price - $439; the 296, a closeout at $349, was less than half price! The 396 was slower to bet canned - and never less than $569 locally. Then - the different (Black, night sights, no Ti cylinder, etc.) 396NG at much more moola. I like my lighter/hammerless 296 for a pocket gun (Mika holster) - just a larger 642. I have the 696 for a plinker, so I have no need for the 396NG. But - at that price, I'd sure look at it!

Of course, for 'hotter' loads, recall that all of the X96 family have a thin forcing cone, I'd look for a snubby 629 - or, perhaps, luck into a 3" 624 - as you did. Still, the 396NG got my eye - as did the 327NG. Then there is my wallet - and the cobwebs contained within. That used 396NG was 'do-able' - definitely a decent price. Of course, if it has no box/papers and was used as a wheelchock, I might change my mind...

Stainz