The two pedals feel SO different, I'd argue that you should know whether or not you want the feel of the Axis or the DW's.
If I were you, I'd buy a used set of DW9000's. Direct drive just does not feel good to me.
However it might feel good to him. What he really should do is head to a shop and try them side by side to see which is best for his feet and playing style ;-) I'd also argue if you are looking direct drive to look into the yamaha direct drive pedals many many guys on here that have them that are very happy with them. Considering trying one for myself.
So how does a direct drive differ from chain drive, is it more responsive or does that depend on your adjustments to it?
xoxo