A method provides a magnetic transducer having an air-bearing surface (ABS) location. An intermediate layer that includes a first sublayer in a side shield region and a second sublayer outside of the side shield region is provided. A trench is formed in the intermediate layer using multiple etches. A first etch removes part of the second sublayer, providing a first portion of the trench having a first sidewall angle. A second etch removes part of the first sublayer, providing a second portion of the trench having a second sidewall angle. The second sidewall angle is greater than the first sidewall angle. A main pole is provided in the trench and has a plurality of sidewalls. The sidewalls have the second sidewall angle in the second portion of the trench and at least one main pole sidewall angle corresponding to the first sidewall angle in the first portion of the trench.