Why does everything need to be viable? Take a look at the variety of OHE weapon types available: 16 different weapons that can be swung as OHEs. Why should a whip-blade be just as viable as a handaxe, broadsword, or swinging a bastard sword one handed? Does that make sense logically for a flimsy whipy blade to inflict as much damage?
Weapons are inherently uneven by design. If you want to use an inferior weapon to fit your RP style, that's entirely your decision, but that's an internal conflict about your own priorities, not a design concern.