Chewy is a very good description!
S/s has one property that is quite weird, two polished ss surfaces rubbed against each other “gel”.
Well known in the gun fraternity.
Ruger, a US manufacturer of guns have been making revolvers in ss since the 70’s, where the internals are injection cast ss.
After proper tuning and polishing, without lubrikation, these parts feel sticky against each other.
No doubt this is what you feel, some alloying metal is giving that feeling.
I am sure there is a more metallurgically knowledgable member that can explain.