From what I gather it might be the best way for me going forward to have a new PC. I see them as low as $150 on amazon that come with windows so I'd have to nuke the SSD and install something like Mint on it instead.
Maybe we can get a fundraiser going for me so I can finally get a new laptop and put this 12 year old piece of junk to bed.
Older models are sturdy (IBM ones are very robust but are also too old), probably better with replacement parts availability.
Two-battery models, like X230-X270 models (and others) can have a lot of battery power put into them. Mine has 72Wh external + 24Wh internal, and I can hotswap the external one, so if I want to I can buy a second 72Wh battery to style on everyone else.
Generally good Linux support, but do look specifically how well whatever you are buying is supported.
edit: the models I mentioned don't seem to have magnesium alloy chassis, so while they might look like a close range weapon, you probably shouldn't use them that way.
Ty!