Since ion-beam-based methods for materials' modification are line-of-sight techniques, it is difficult to coat three-dimensional objects completely. Here, a device is described for coating rings by ion beam sputter deposition. A broad-beam ion source is combined with a sputter target consisting of two cones, forming the shape of the letter W in cross-section. With this technique, steel rings were coated with thin aluminium and chromium films. Adhesion measurements at different ring positions showed that the coatings were well adhering. Electrochemical corrosion tests proved that the coating was able to protect the steel ring from aqueous corrosion.