Yes, putting these chairs together is quite the task.  The instructions are, of course, confusing and the parts are not labeled well. But for the price and quality, it is definitely worth it.  Comparable chairs go for two to three times as much on this site and elsewhere.  I purchased the oak finish which is rich in color and looks great, and they are sturdy and durable. (I've been dragging them around my new apartment to hang photos and put the china dishes away on the top shelf.)  They arrived quickly and packaged carefully so as not to be damaged. Highly recommended.