Stained the chairs while still in pieces, much easier.  Took the stain very well.  Chairs were easy to assemble.  The chairs are not very heavy so they are easy to move.  I have had the chairs for several years and they stay outside year round. They have held up and over the years the stain is a deeper color and look better. I would recommend this Adirondack chair if you want a lighter weight chair to move around.