I need to buy a new laptop in the next couple of weeks, and I haven't been able to make any decisions about models that I particularly like. Here's a couple of things that will be important about the computer:
-fairly small (12.1-14" screen)
-fairly rugged (not Toughbook rugged)
-not very specific on specs...2.4 Ghz Intel, 2 GB ram, 120+ GB is fine, etc

Any suggestions? Looking to spend about $1400 (Canadian) tops...

I

Toshbia
I have had about all the name brands and the Toshbia was one of my toughest ones.

Check out the Lenovo T61's. I have the T60 and this thing is tough as a rock. For mid $1200's you can get that in the exact specs you want (2.4Ghz, 2Gb ram, 14.1" monitor, etc.)

I had a Toshiba and really didn't find it to be tough at all. Just my 2 cents.

You can have a look at the Hp and dell also, recently they are offering some sales on laptops.
HP has Stackable $200 off $999 on HP Pavilion Notebook PCs, limit 2160 uses w/ coupon code: NB3408 .
AND Dell:
Now using the coupon code 5S3PC1$FTDJ$BV, you can enjoy 30% off $1299 on Inspiron Laptop at Dell Home

I have to say that Dell makes a tough laptop, Latitude model anyway. I have been working on one in my spare time the last couple days and found out that it has been seriously mistreated, and still works. I doubt you will intensionally be pushing yours off the end of the bed, which is what this one has had to endure.

I've had a few issues with the durability of Compaq laptops but that was before HP bought Compaq. I have another HP laptop and it's a business laptop. Spilled diet cola on it. Didn't know I should have turned it off immediately. Kept letting it run after the spill and it still works... that is what i call a tough laptop!
The USB ports act a little funkay but it still works...