The Nobz are the biggest and meanest Orks short of a Warboss. They’re the enforcers, the bodyguards, and the elite fighters of any Ork mob, and they matter because they’re the ones who keep the boyz in line and lead the charge when things get krumpy.
What makes a Nob?
Nobz are Orks who’ve grown larger than regular Boyz, and in Ork society size equals authority. They use that bulk to boss around smaller Orks, Gretchin, and Snotlings, often with casual cruelty. The name likely comes from a mangled version of ‘Nobles’, though Orks pronounce it more like ‘Knobs’.
They’re more than big, they’re arrogant and love pushing others around. That aggression makes them natural leaders, and when a Warboss falls, the biggest Nob in his entourage usually takes over.
Roles on the battlefield
You’ll find Nobz leading mobs of Boyz as Boss Nobz, or forming elite squads of their own. Many serve as a Warboss’s bodyguard, and those who favour close combat often become Meganobz, clanking into battle in suits of Mega Armour.
Some Nobz ride to war as Warbikers, tearing across the battlefield on bikes loaded with guns. Others are Beast Snagga Nobz, Bannernobz, or other specialists, but all share the same brutal attitude.
- Boss Nobz: lead mobz of Boyz, equipped with flashier gear.
- Meganobz: heavily armoured close-combat specialists in Mega Armour.
- Nob Warbikers: fast-moving gunslingers on bikes.
- Beast Snagga Nobz: specialists at hunting big game.
- Bannernobz: carry the Waaagh! banner into battle.
Gear and status
Among Orks, weapons and armour are signs of status, so Nobz get first pick of the loot. They wield a wide range of wargear, from simple Sluggas and Choppas to Big Choppas, Power Klaws, Killsaws, and Kombi-Weapons.
Meganobz take it further with Mega Armour, a piston-driven exoskeleton welded with thick metal plates that gives them tremendous strength. It’s the ultimate status symbol in Ork society, provided by the tribe’s Meks.
Recent model updates
In 2026, Games Workshop revealed a new Nobz kit with plenty of customisation options, including kustom krumpas, a big skorcha, and three Grots to carry ammo. A new Warbikers kit also arrived, featuring dual dakkaguns and rokkit upgrades for the Biker Nob.
These kits keep the classic Nobz look while adding more detail and options for collectors and players.
Key facts
- Nobz are larger, stronger Orks who serve as elite troops and enforcers.
- They often lead mobz of Boyz, guard the Warboss, or fight in specialised units.
- Common variants include Boss Nobz, Meganobz, Nob Warbikers, and Beast Snagga Nobz.
- Nobz get the best pick of weapons and armour, including Power Klaws and Mega Armour.
- A new Nobz kit and Warbikers kit were revealed in 2026.
FAQ
What’s the difference between a Nob and a Boss Nob?
A Boss Nob is simply a Nob who leads a mob of Boyz. They have access to flashier gear like kustom shootas and big choppas, but they’re still Nobz at heart.
How do Nobz compare to Meganobz?
Meganobz are Nobz who wear Mega Armour, making them slower but much tougher and stronger. They’re dedicated close-combat monsters, while regular Nobz can be more flexible.
Can Nobz become Warbosses?
Yes. If a Warboss dies, the biggest and strongest Nob in his retinue often takes his place, becoming the new leader of the Waaagh!.