Did you check with the ATV salvage guy there at the S. Eagle River exit by Johnsons tire svc? He has quite a selection. Some of his prices weren't all that impressive, but he may have a used one for less.
I see the rear drive shaft priced at $208, the axle should be considerably cheaper. I broke one on my father in laws '97 KQ and seems like it was around $60 for a new axle.
The one I broke kinda shows the power of the 'ol KQ. The rear brake drum was frozen and I, being the brain surgeon I am, figured super low range would simply conquer the ice and free up the brake. WRONG! I put that baby in SL and started to back out of the shed (about 1/2 throttle) then POW! Next thing I know I'm moving, but the right rear tire is not. Snapped that axle right in two!
Make sure CC is giving you the price for an axle and not the drive shaft tho.