How to AXE properly without getting punished?

Classic Fighting Games Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike
1

For some reason, whenever I try:
cr.LK, LP AXE
or
IAD, j.LP, LP AXE

I usually get punished by a sweep or a shoto’s cr.MK.

Is there spacing issue? Does AXE have to be done close to not get punished? AXE has to be mashed on to be safe?

Sorta like this at :25 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIU8Riuh-pY&feature=player_embedded#at=23

2

LP AXE is (pretty) unsafe on block. It’s worse if only the first of its two hits connects and the second one whiffs. I’m sure Twelve has to be parked right next to someone in order for both hits to connect. I usually stay away from using ground AXE in general, but EX AXE is wonderful for punishing.