This is a BIG toy! And right out of the over-sized box, it's obvious that once assembled, this stand represents some serious fun. While I'm sure it was built by Chinese who spend very little on quality control, the stand's pieces fit together just like they're designed. Some require a little extra effort to get the screws in and aligned, but it does seem like it'll easily hold its intended swings or anything else you can cook up. Putting it together can take a few minutes, and is definitely aided by having two people. You can probably assemble the pieces (there's not that many) in about 5 to 10 minutes. Most of the assembly and dis-assembly process is focused on holding the pieces together at the right angles, and without one side attached.

For those who are considering a swing or who want to tie their partner to a sturdy frame, and don't like the option of putting a giant eye-bolt in the ceiling or attachments on the wall, then this is for you! Assembled, it holds both of our weight (for a combined 350 pounds) and barely moves. It provides plenty of room to spin and swing one person, while leaving free space for the other to maneuver around. And of course the beauty of it all is the easy dis-assembly (again, about 5 minutes) and storage of all the pieces under the bed or in a closet.

I'd say that this stand now allows more freedom to move your partner around with easy (and very fun) access from all sides (or below), and it allows us not to have to constantly change angles or places in order to take advantage of the swing-loaded partner (which IS the whole point of having and using a swing). Sure, it's a little pricey, but can you put a price on real fun?

My only complaint with this version of the swing (and recall that we are fans of how sturdy this one is and the improved width), is that the finish (cheap, powder-coating wannabe) easily rubs off anywhere the pieces come in contact with each other. Brushing against the pipes doesn't do much, unless you're rubbing with anything that's not soft. I don't think it's a huge deal breaker, but it's a minor issue.

Otherwise, we're still loving the swing stand! (Definitely buy it on sale, it's not worth a full $400!)