Wales had their share of kicking woes during the World Cup in New Zealand earlier this season, with key chances being missed against opening pool phase opponents South Africa and semi-final conquerors France.
Injuries could yet force Wales boss Warren Gatland's hand in that department, with fly-half Rhys Priestland battling to overcome a knee problem ahead of next Sunday's trip to Dublin.
Priestland apart, though, Gatland also has James Hook, Stephen Jones and Leigh Halfpenny among his Six Nations training squad as goalkicking options.
And it would be no surprise if Halfpenny, who has assumed front-line kicking duties for Cardiff Blues this season, landed the role.
"You need options, and Leigh's long-distance kicking has been exceptional," Wales assistant coach Howley said. "Kicking closer is a far different test of character, skill and mindset.
"It is good to see Leigh is setting standards, and he has kept the Blues in a few games since coming back from the World Cup.
"That puts pressure on Warren and (Wales kicking coach) Neil Jenkins, because everyone knows kicking was an area highlighted in the World Cup and it will be important in the Six Nations. It decides games.
"We have strength in depth in Hook, Stephen Jones, Priestland and Halfpenny. It will be Warren's decision, and he will make it with Neil.
"Whoever starts goalkicking will be good enough. We have four good front-line kickers."
Wales, meanwhile, could launch their Six Nations campaign without almost half the team that destroyed Ireland's World Cup dream.
The countries' Six Nations clash comes four months after Wales claimed a comprehensive World Cup quarter-final win in Wellington.
While Ireland must find a way of coping without injured captain Brian O'Driscoll for the entire tournament, Wales might arrive at the Aviva Stadium minus seven influential players boasting 330 caps between them.
Prop Gethin Jenkins (knee), together with locks Luke Charteris (wrist) and Alun-Wyn Jones (toe) are confirmed non-starters, while Shane Williams' retirement from Test rugby leaves a considerable void on the left wing.
But adding to Wales boss Warren Gatland's fitness worries are Priestland (knee), centre Jamie Roberts (knee) and flanker Dan Lydiate (ankle).
Gatland has already put back his team announcement from today until midday on Friday, although Howley insists Wales are hopeful of their injured players recovering in time.
While Hook and Ryan Jones would be respective favourites to replace Priestland and Lydiate, 21-year-old uncapped Ospreys centre Ashley Beck is making a strong case for inclusion should Roberts be sidelined.
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