checking an axle for straightness

[plott hound]

i bought a brand new axle from argo to have as a spare.had it standing on its end when a bud of mine seen it he says "that thing has got a bend in it".i reply "ya right" thinking he is blowing smoke up my butt.i turn it a few times and damn it does look bent.i put a speed square on the flange and move it to the weld and it does appear to be out o one side? how is this possible?is it an opticle illusion? just wondering what the best way to check to see if it is out.
thanks

[dirtdobber]

Just lay it on a flat table with the flange hanging off the edge and roll it. If the flange is crooked you will see it wobble.