I cooked these according to the directions. However, the beans were too firm. Does as anyone else have this issue or suggestions?

It takes the larger beans more time to cook. Just cook them longer. A crock pot overnight usually does the trick. A good tip I have done for years is to add several TBLSPs of Apple Cider Vinegar to the first water and boil for about 1 hour. Then drain them and put them in some water again or tomatoes or whatever you are making out of them. The Vinegar helps to soften the beans and also helps with the flatulence that beans can cause. These make good chili just by adding the tomatoes and hamburger and chili seasoning.

Is each bag 29 oz or 16 oz? The title of product said 29 oz (pack of 4) but the sizes available is 16 oz (pack of 4)

There are 4 bags, 29 oz each, in this product when I bought it a few months back. The best bean mixture I have bought. I love Bob's Red Mill products. I make Ham and Bean Soup and I use it for my chili also.

Are these just dried beans... or in a plastic bag with water ?

These are dried beans. You add the water when cooking them.

is it made in china ?

I still have the bag .. It lists the address Bob's Red Mill Natural Foods Inc. 13521 SE Pheasant Court Milwaukie, Or. 97222 U.S.A. No mention of China.