The only real utility to the assembly directions is that they refer you to the box photo...once I realized that, it became easy (took me 20 minutes to build meticulously...I lost 5 minutes?). I had a pitchback when I was a kid (eons ago :-) and loved it...it literally turned me into a pitcher! This product is notably better (I haven't found another as good). Once assembled, its uniquely solid and its very convenient to adjust (nice markers on back rails) or stow (back rails clip off at bottom for flat storage...thoughtful design!). My 6 year old son adores it...he usually prefers playing catch with it over me! (hey it does return the ball faster...and by design it teaches more directly, perfecting throwing and catching together). For anyone learning/practicing baseball (softball, T-ball, etc.) this product is a MUST HAVE. It's also very useful for other sports, particularly soccer (in more vertical position, with supplied anchors firmly in ground). 5 stars

I am not a rocket scientist, but I can follow directions, especially written ones very well.These directions for putting this together stunk. They were not clear.Step 1 says you need (2) pieces, when you actually need 8 to complete Step 1...serious flaws. I called their customer service. Helpful person, but she,after 25-30 minutes on the phone with me, had to go get one out of the box, and look at it to better assist. It's put together. My son likes it, so that's what counts. I am a dummy for not looking at a retail store first. $10 v. $31 from Amazon. 3 stars

This product is exactly what I expected. My 8 year old son loves using it. It is definitely sturdy enough for a kid his age to use for praticing baseball. It gives him a target to aim throwing at and he also enjoys catching (or trying to catch) the return. As a result he has shown a greater interest in baseball. 5 stars

I haven't used one of these ball returns since I was a kid, but I wanted my 7-year-old son to have an opportunity to practice like I use to. I was hesitant about ordering this, because surely it couldn't be as good as the one I use to have. Boy, was I wrong. This is a great ball return and is quite sturdy. Be prepared for the dreaded "some assembly required." The directions are far from good, and I eventually resorted to using the picture on the box for reference. But after it was assembled, it became fun to use and we look forward to many practice days ahead. I would highly recommend this. 5 stars

This is a very good product, but there were not enough of the bungee cords with it. It has held up very well, so far, and my grandson (7) enjoys it almost every day. It has helped him improve his throwing, and catching skills. I would recomend this, but make sure of all the parts!!! 4 stars