I think it depends on the use. An old style shaving razor might cut through thick rope no problem, the first time and be useless after that.

I have blades with VG-10 and S30V steel and while VG-10 can get noticeably sharper it also gets dull quicker. That must be why Doug prefers S30V in the field.

My sharpest kitchen knives might have a problem with the skin of a tomato but my knives with a a bit rougher edge manage to cut through no problem.