Hello Fellow Newbie,
9's won't cause any issues on the Axis. I was a die hard EB Super Slinky player for 15 years. I play stunt guitar with a Floyd Rose, so 9's were the norm for that late 80's style.
The owner of the music store knows I chase tone, so he kept suggesting I try 10's, but I kept putting him off, and buying the Super Slinkys. Until one day he would not sell them to me and he gave me, for free, a set of EB Regular Slinkys. I have never looked back.
After a short period of playing, you will egt used to the larger strings, and you will love the improved tone and feel. Your fingers get stronger, and stunt guitar tricks are just the same as with the Supers, and the pinch harmonics just come so easy with these strings. These guys at EB make a wonderful product.
But, sure, you can put 9's on the Axis. That's probably what Eddie had on there back in the day...I even string my 13 year old's guitar with the Regular 10's since I figure they are less likely to snap on him. And why not get those fingers strong when he's young...
Have a great day...
- Bryan
