A magnetic recording head includes a magnetic recording write element including a main pole having a leading edge, an opposing trailing edge, a first side surface and a second side surface. A first side magnetic shield is positioned adjacent the first side surface and a second side magnetic shield positioned adjacent to the second side surface. First and second side shields are separated from the main pole by a first and second side shield gap. A front magnetic shield is separated from the main pole trailing edge by a front shield gap. A recess extends into the front shield adjacent to the trailing edge, and parallel to the trailing edge, and extends laterally away from the main pole and into the front shield a distance greater than the first or second side shield gap.