Several of the more famous repeaters were chambered for rounds larger than .35 As I recall the Spencer was chamber for .56-56, and the Henry was chambered for .44-40. Larger calibers than .35, but also much smaller powder loads than .45-70. I believe that the smaller powder loads resulted in faster bullet drop and thus shorter range.
Actually, the bullet didn't drop any faster, it just didn't travel as far before it dropped. (lower muzzle velocity)
The Spencer was .52 caliber with a 48 grain load of bp in a copper cartridge. Not a strong caliber but useful for the cavalry in close fighting as the effective range was only about 500 yards.
IIRC the Spencer was one of the rifles tested and it did not make it through the tests and was eliminated early in the trials. The Army was very concerned about long distance performance and the .45-70 won out over the .50-80 because of the ability of the .45-70 to go farther accurately.
In 1882 the Springfiels had their sights extended to 1500 yards. It was used for area effect rather than aimed shots.