I think it was a fine choice given your particular circumstances. Like you, I was on a limited budget and I wanted something that I wouldn't outgrow and had sufficient challenge for the foreseeable future. I chose the Axe over the Blade, but purely because it was what was carried by the HS I went to. If I would have had to have waited until I could afford a $200 simulator (then possibly a coax) and then a 450+ size electric I never would have gotten in to this hobby. The axe and blade can be a bit jittery and you might have to chase the tail quite a bit, but it is doable. If you get the chance to go bigger, you will have an easy time making the transition.

Just take it nice and slow and expect a bump or two along the way. It sounded like you expected that with these helis, so I think you'll do fine.

Keep us posted on how it is going!!