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I would like to get some opinions on whether I should make a reverse taper on the shank of this pipe.

I originally was going to do a typical saddle stem but changed my plan to the stem in the photos and now I'm not sure if the straight sided shank fits with the overall flow of the pipe. I kind of think a taper would pull all of the elements together but am a bit concerned about changing it this late in the game.

Thanks in advance. (Sorry about the crappy pics)

Too late, IMO. You don't have enough meat on the shank to reverse taper and keep good proportions.

I think it looks fine as is anyway.

IAGWT

I agree that it looks good. I'd narrow the width of the stem a to match the width of the shank too then adjust your taper. Does it sit on it's own?

Thanks everyone. I'll try to plan things out a bit better for the next one.

Wayne, it just barely sits right now. I'm hoping that with a little more weight off the button and a few grams of tobacco in the bowl it will be more stable.

This is actually apretty small pipe. The button is only about 0.6 inches now, the shanks is 0.52. I was afraid the pipe would be uncomfortable if I went much narrower on the button.

IAWT&W Nice work JT!!

You may have a little room to do a very slight reverse taper, but best thing to do is finish and move to next one.

Keep it the way it is. Once you cut the button and sand the stem it should sit well. If not you can sand a slightly bigger angle on the foot.