Accident Details
The pilot reported that the accident occurred during a wheel landing in a tailwheel-equipped airplane on a hard surface runway. Upon touchdown, the airplane began to swerve side-to-side, which the pilot attributed to the airplane's "natural instability" on the ground.
Pilot Actions
In an attempt to maintain directional control, the pilot pulled the control stick fully aft and applied maximum braking. However, the combination of excessive brake input and the airplane's level pitch attitude caused the airplane to pitch down, resulting in the propeller striking the runway. The airplane then pivoted back onto the tailwheel.
Aftermath and Damage
The airplane came to rest upright on the runway. The tailwheel crushed the lower portion of the rudder when it landed hard on the runway.
Examination Findings
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. A postaccident examination confirmed flight control continuity and found no issues with the wheel brakes or the tailwheel.