The present disclosure relates to a fiber optic connector including a connector housing having a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end can form a plug portion adapted for insertion within a receptacle of a fiber optic adapter. A rear insert mounts within the proximal end of the connector housing. An axial insertion/retention interface can be defined between the connector housing and the rear insert. The axial insertion/retention interface can be configured to allow the rear insert to be inserted into and removed from the proximal end of the connector housing along an insertion axis when the rear insert is positioned in a first rotational position about the insertion axis relative to the connector housing. The axial insertion/retention interface can also be configured to prevent the rear insert from being withdrawn from the proximal end of the connector housing along the insertion axis.