Go to an actual archery store to get fitted and try some out; read reviews in Bowhunter magazine. A lot of the differences are pretty marginal for new users. Current bows have a pretty amazing drop-off rate, which makes it very easy to hold at full-draw. But you do need upper body strength the get to the drop-off point.

If you’re talking real, serious, the-end-of-the-world-as-we-know-it apocalypse, then I’d recommend getting either a fiberglass recurve bow in the 80#+ range and a few spare strings, or a Mossberg Shockwave and a single shell. The fiberglass recurve bow will be difficult to learn to shoot effectively, but it essentially maintenance-free. The Mossberg will prevent you from having to learn to use the bow effectively.

I have a very strong preference to the silicone triple-flange ear tips. They help block outside noise and fit comfortably. Unfortunately, they also don’t work with many ear buds. Shure is one of the few brands that they work with for certain.