Use local instead of global axes
 
 
 

Each object (DAG node) has a unique set of local axes. By default, an object’s local axes are aligned with the world global axes. Choose Transform > Local > Set Local Axes to change the orientation of an object’s local axes.

Change an object’s local axes

  1. Pick an object whose local axes you want to change.
  2. Choose Transform > Local > Set Local Axes .
  3. Rotate the object’s local axes around the world global axes.

    See Use the mouse and keyboard in tools

Rotate an object around its local axes

  1. Choose Transform > Rotate  .
  2. Set the Type option to Local.

Move an object along its local axes

  1. Choose Transform > Move  .
  2. Set the Type option to Local.

What if...?

I want to permanently display the local axes of all picked objects?

Choose WindowDisplay > Toggles > Pivots   and turn on Local Axes Display.