[en] We analyze the utility of the axial gauge by explicitly evaluating the order g² parton cross sections with n² not equal 0. The non-log terms, changing for different on/off-shell mass assignments, receive particular attention. By giving insight into some of the calculation details, we elucidate points of principle and expose some of the technical subtleties. The DY cross sections resulting from on- and off-shell infrared regularization (with massive quarks) do not agree unless the double cut rule is observed. (orig.)