The fact that the #3 has no engraving and twist barrels seems to lend credence to the #'s indicating various degrees of quality since my #6 has some engraving and damascus barrels. It also shows the same engraving as can be seen in the #8 and the same floorplate as #3. Also the #8 has a rib extension with a crossbolt whereas my #6 has no crossbolt. Instead it has a rib extension with a dolls head that is shaped like a clover leaf. I will check out your tip about the library and will post the results if any are found. In the meantime if you find out anything else please let me know.
Thanks again,
Austin