Abstract: A buffer seal is provided and adapted to absorb high pressures. The buffer seal includes a body portion and a sealing portion with a backup ring disposed in a groove adjacent to the sealing portion. The sealing portion has a first surface that is perpendicular to a reference axis of the buffer seal and a second surface that forms an acute angle with the reference axis, preferably less than thirty degrees. The first surface of the sealing portion extends axially from the body portion to form a shoulder. The shoulder functions during use to provide a surface that pressurized fluid can act against to urge the sealing portion against a shaft.