Plugs are worth a try. I think that every pipe smoker should have the experience of sharpening their knife and carefully slicing off a flake or twist or rope... just for that nostalgic feel to it. And, you can fashion thinner slices or thicker slices for variations of flavor and performance. However, after doing that, I prefer the ready rubbed myself. Been there, done that, just let me enjoy the smoking part.
And, for a leathery, smokey, experience it is delicious with natural sweetness from the leaf and it's combination. Yes, it's worth a try. And, if you don't enjoy it at first, try cube cutting, or thicker, or thinner slices, or just rubbing some out. It's really a versatile blend.