I'm sure it's pretty slow (the docs would seem to agree), but maybe speed is not the main thing you care about.

The only drawback with it is that is built-in CBC is not compatible w/ Crypt::Rijndael in CBC mode. I don't know why, that's just what the docs say. This could potentially require you to use Crypt::CBC for compatibility purposes.

If you really do want speed, check out Crypt::Rijndael. It is self-contained, in that it has a built-in CBC mode, so you don't need to rely on Crypt::CBC. It is XS, however, so that may be a potential turnoff for you.

(BTW if you feel like it keep me posted on your work with Crypt::OpenPGP; I'd be interested in hearing what you're doing with it. :)