Begali Leonessa Dual Mode Key

The Begali Leonessa Dual Mode Key has a unique design that achieves two completely distinctive styles of operating as well as adjustable finger piece spacing. This dual-lever paddle with narrowly spaced finger pieces can be converted into a dual-action single lever key with a few turns of an adjustment screw. Plus, the spacing between the finger pieces is adjustable from 6.5mm to 14mm (1/4" to 9/16") with the contact points located right behind the finger pieces. This facilitates superb tactile feedback for high speed operation with plenty of room for wider contact gaps.

Begali has achieved the incredible feat of creating a precision key that can satisfy operators of both persuasions. The secret to the Leonessa's extraordinary flexibility is the adjustment screw on one of the finger pieces that can be seen in close-up image. When the screw is retracted the Leonessa works as a dual lever paddle with narrowly spaced finger pieces - perfect for high-speed iambic operation. By adjusting that screw you can prevent the contacts from both closing when you squeeze the paddles – allowing Leonessa to be operated in single lever fashion, a mode which is preferred by many of the fastest operators in the world. The Leonessa allows the user to experiment with both modes of operation, to determine which mode suits them best.

The Leonessa, of course, has all the characteristics of the best Begali keys: lightweight aluminum arms, perforated finger pieces for a secure grip, precision racing bearings, solid silver contacts, finely adjustable contact gaps, magnetically controlled return force, and a heavy black base with titanium oxide coating and a beautifully engraved lion. The company’s home city of Brescia, which carries a lion in its coat of arms, is also known as Leonessa d'ltalia for heroic feats in its long and varied history.

If you come from a history of using mechanical bugs or straight keys, you may find the operation of a single lever key easier than the "squeeze" mode of iambic paddles. With the Leonessa you are not locked into one mode or the other!