is there a preferred front axle tightening method?

[Fazerider]

So far as I know it's the standard method of getting the forks aligned. You slacken the top nut slightly too so the upper and lower halves of the yoke are able to rotate relative to each other. Bouncing the front a few times forces them to line up, you can then tighten the top again, then the lower clamps. (Then check it's not affected the steering head bearing tightness.)
Unless there has been an impact with something or you've had the steering head off for maintenance it shouldn't be necessary.