[gentoo-user] Upgrading old kernel

[james]

Hello,


So I have a gentoo system, with a 3.18.25 kernel.

It works fabulously, but it is time to upgrade, as most codes dependent 
on old software, have been migrated.

So should I skip to a version 5 kernel?
If so which one? I usually run hundreds of testing packages so maybe 
make the new system all testing?


Note: Not interested in using genkernel; prefer discrete, old-fashions 
method of understandable steps;
but perhaps scripted...


I run many old gentoo systems, from embedded hacks on 32 bit micros to 
AMD centric workstations (old but reliable). So, I really would like a 
system/guide that is general, but where I can add details for the 
various hardware/architectures/ issues. It seems like for 18 years, it's 
been a 'whatever reboots' incoherent system
and I'm tire of it.


I need structure and consistency, as I might not upgrade/install any 
system for months/years
and then I need to do a dozen or more, not necessarily of the same 
hardware.  AMD and ARM are what they are mostly, but other variants are 
in my collective. Hardware is like kids, it's hard for me to let go; ymmv.

BTW, a guide that is BTRFS centric, would really be cool....

All discussion/suggestions are welcome, including comments on the links 
below.

Is this the best guide to follow?


https://www.kernel.org/doc/html/latest/

or this one?

https://wiki.gentoo.org/wiki/Kernel/Upgrade

https://wiki.gentoo.org/wiki/Kernel

and this I found this noob_simplified_doc:

https://blog.khmersite.net/2019/01/upgrade-kernel-on-gentoo/

Really looking for input for one generalized guide that can have options 
for various hardware combos.


curiously,
James