Abstract: A variable width gate adapted to be manipulated to secure the gate within the boundary of an opening, the gate comprising: (a) a gate member; and (b) a locking mechanism to secure the gate member within a boundary of an opening, the mechanism comprising: (i) a first member mounted to the gate member, (ii) a second member mounted to the gate member and adapted to reciprocate with respect to the first member, the second member being operative to generate a force expanding the gate member when reciprocated toward the first member, and (iii) a latch mounted to one of the first member or the second member that selectively interacts with the other of the first member or the second member to substantially sustain the position of the first member with respect to the second member to substantially sustain the force.