[lbj]

If you haven't already, just swap your CTRL and CAPS lock keys. That makes for a pleasant typing experience.

[ecyrb]

I used to use a Typematrix 2030, but have gone back to standard keyboards. I use viper and vimpulse in emacs, so I'm currently using the following mappings (in addition to a Dvorak layout):

CapsLock key = Backspace (I hate that reach)

Tilde key = Escape (for VI)

Escape key = CapsLock (for when you need it)

Backspace key = Tilde

My windows keys also function as Control, so that I don't have to be super accurate when using my pinky joint (where my pinky meets my palm) to press it.

[malkia]

At first, this combination looks weird. But thinking about it, it makes great sense.

[ecyrb]

Having the tilde so far away is pretty annoying in a shell, but I haven't invested the time in coming up with something better.

[mhd]

I prefer to have it as an additional ctrl, who needs caps anyway? And while you're at it, use the Windows keys, too (if you have 'em). Dividing keyboard shortcuts between Control, Alt, Meta (and maybe Hyper) is much nicer…

Then install smex[1] and searching for commands in the long form is much faster, so you don't need to have that many shortcuts in the first place.

And the fastest and easiest key press is the one you don't have to do: Learn to use keyboard macros, you won't regret it.

[1] http://www.emacswiki.org/emacs/Smex

[graywh]

I've done that, and I don't even use Emacs.