PM2 or Delica are great starting points.
Both are available with high-end steels I would not get the standard version unless it's a beater.
I have several axis knives and for me they are fine if I'm carrying in the back corner of my front pocket of a pair of jeans. However I frequently carry IWB or loose in a pocket and much prefer the stay closed bias of a lockback. I have had several different types of non-lock back knives open IWB or in my pocket.
The axis is fun to fidget with though.
I also much prefer a knife with a ricasso or a choil in the event of a lock failure to protect my hand. (Many will say the axis will not fail but rest assured if it gets debris in it it can fail to lock open)
So for me it is not the type of lock but rather what features it brings to the table. The best feature an axis knife has is the ability to close it quickly IMHO