Not sure about the skipping, may be dirt and grime like in my Royal 200 (which is a similar typewriter to the Sprite), but in regards to the caps, it seems like you're not pressing down in the shift key hard enough. When one types fast, they are compelled to hit the keys lighter, and the shift key is not a key to hit lightly. Especially the heavy carriage shift typewriters like the Royal 10 and the Olympia SM-4, they will punish for using improper technique. It's really a matter of getting used to the particular machine. If you use a machine with heavy touch for awhile, then one with a lighter touch will feel odd. Just keep typing, and you'll smooth everything out.

Thanks for this. It's probably me. I got a solid F in typing when I was a boy, and finally taught myself, though I do use the finger placement they taught in typing class - with more flexibility / less rigidity of course. I'm lightening fast on a computer keyboard. But I suppose I'm used to feeling like my mere touch is supposed to be the creative force on the page (computer keyboards are lovers, not fighters - respond to my caress!) - I'll need to learn to punch those keys again, like in the old mechanical keyboard days. I figured basket shift would be fine, but doesn't seem to make a difference - I need to hit it. Interestingly, the carriage shift on the Groma is light enough that, while not as fun, it's compensated for by the choppy typing style it inspires.