Can't comment on the best load for the Axis, but my son's been FTR target shooting using a stock Model 12 VLP .233 with 26" barrel 1:7 twist.

For competition we load 24.7 gr ADI2208 - Varget equivalent - in Norma cases with 80 gr A-Max projectiles.
We're now seating about 0.010 from the lands - as measured with a Hornady OAC.

Within a few months my son was shooting competitively with more experienced shooters out to 1000 yards.

It is possible to get good results with some work.

My question would be what are you developing the round for?
Target shooting? Hunting? What accuracy do you require?
How much work are you willing to put into your reloading?