What you're describing is what a normal cycle should be. But the drugs don't get you shredded. Diet and exercise does. Come on, how many times have you seen people say they're 16% bf and want to do a "cutter." That means they need to be in a calorie deficit, and in that case, using gear is pretty much a waste other than vanity purposes. Those are the guys who usually look like shit unless they're on something. I've seen it far too many times. But once again, people can do whatever they want.
Here's a strange analogy. Training naturally is like studying but not going to college. You'll still get smarter, but it'll be limited.
Using gear without training and eating correctly is like going to college without studying. You'll maybe get a little smarter but not as much as the former example. It's even more limiting.
But if you both, each compliment the other and you'll be as smart as possible.
Make sense?