This topic isn't whether 1h/shield players can or can't get valor, or whether a 1h will glance on sideswings, it's a debate on why 1h thrust has to suck. And here, 'suck' is in the context of comparison to the 2h thrust. If 2h can deliver lightning-fast stabs for full damage from 0m to 2m, why shouldn't 1h be able to land a thrust on someone two feet away without it bouncing?
I made a 2h STF char with a longsword, and only did thrusts. I was unable to find a situation where the thrust wasn't the ideal attack. Fighting cavalry, other 2h, facehugging shielders; it was easy to land full-damage thrusts in every situation. Meanwhile, with my loomed Knightly Arming Sword on my main, every thrust is a gamble. Between the confusing hitbox, large delay, and tiny sweet spot, it's just not worth the risk.
Which is a shame, since there are some great thrusting 1h weapons that are rendered nearly useless by these limitations (+3 long espada may be the most worthless +3 item on the marketplace).