when i got the chance to jump in to location sound jobs last year i had to get the best kit with the limited budget i had at the time. i went with the zoom F8, two wired COS11, and my existing schoeps cmc41. THAT'S IT (besides a ton of tiny accessories). i've added a CMIT 5U, but after like 15 gigs the set has well payed for itself already. i haven't had any issues besides a couple operator related bungles, but nothing job killing. i've done mostly 2-4 people interviews, a little ENG, and some on-cam shoots and my setup has been awesome. however, with all the crazy needs and expectations for film shoots you might want to look at the other more expensive recorders/mixers since they are just expected, and it seems by this thread and others i have read seeing the zoom on set would make peoples' heads explode with fear.
however, i think in most cases, people want to hire you because of YOU and your experience. what's in your bag is of second importance.