In one example embodiment, an optical connector arrangement includes a coupler with a first part and a second part each having a first end to receive an optical fiber core and a second end that releasably couples the first part and the second part. An insert block having a connector face and an assembly face is included in each of the first part and the second part. The connector face has a lens assembly to optically couple the optical fiber core of the first part and the second part, and the assembly face has an axial passageway that terminates in the assembly face and aligns with the first end to receive an end portion of the optical fiber core.