We just purchased this safety gate from Toys R Us; it was advertised in the flyer for $20 savings, so it was a great price at $40 (October 13, 2008).
ALL of the safety gates boxes are unwieldy, so it took some maneuvering to fit it into my smaller car's back seat along-side my son's car-seat. To be expected.
It comes fully assembled and ready-to-go (pressure mount) and comes with all the hardware required to solid-mount it to the studs in your wall. You'll need your own tools. I would recommend upgrading the wall anchors and screws to something more hardy if you are putting it at the top of the stairs; can't be too careful (our top-of-stair gate pulled out of the wall over time).
Since we're using this particular at the bottom of the stairs, we're just using the pressure mounting system.
To fit this gate, you simply flip the 2 guide latches open (child proof), slide the two-halves of the gate to fit into your opening, and close the latches.
Of course, walls and baseboards are never 100% even, so this gate allows you to adjust each of the four "feet's" distance from the wall.
The gate is one of the more attractive ones out there, and it's clear panes make it less visually obtrusive. It is light and easily maneuverable. It is also easily opened (by adult hands); I will be keeping an eye to see when my son will figure out how to open it as it's not a complicated opening system.
(Side Note: For our top-of-stairs gate, we are enjoying the
Kiddyguard Retractable gate...for two reasons...1) it lays nearly flat against the wall (small "footprint") and 2) the opening system is complicated so my son won't be able to figure it out. It is also very expensive, but well worth it.)
While pressure mounted, the First Years gate feels like the it has some flex, but it didn't give way with any significant pressure. That being said, it is not recommended as a top-of-stair mount using pressure only. I agree.
I recommend this safety gate!
