Is a non Axe condition Firebrand viable?

I really dislike Axe on my freshly dinged condi Firebrand and i was wondering if sword could be a good replacement for it? Or a core condi would be a better option in this case? Something like Sw/Torch + Sc/X? for all kind of stuff: open world, low lvl fractals, maybe some WvW ... I also have in mind non glassy build: maybe Carrion in combination with Rabid ...

Yes, axe is not necessary in PvE. Condi damage is lower without axe, but with sword and scepter is decent for OW and low fractals. Power FB and power quick brand (support/dps FB focused on 100% quickness uptime for group) do not need axe.

I would not say axe is necessary in PvP, but you are doing your self a disservice by not using axe. 2 CCs on low CD is very useful. Though I do recommend against FB in PvP, and honestly, guardian in general.